Hi
I am from India. I am on F1 visa since 2001. I got married in June 2004. My wife didn't work in 2004. In August 2005, she joined the same school. She is on assistnatship. For 2004 tax forms, I claimed her as dependent.
My question is that can I claim her as dependent since she was dependent on me for 8 months.
If I can claim her as dependent then I guess obviously we need to file taxes separately.
Please advise.
Thanks

I believe I answered this already.

If you are both non-resident aliens who earn income, then you cannot claim each other as dependents. You each have to file your own Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ.

The good news is you will probably pay the same amount in taxes.

Thanks atlanta tax expert
I agree we can not claim each other but can I claim my wife as dependent because she was dependent on me for 8 months in year 2005. She started earning from August 2005. I wish I could claim her as my dependent (money matters). Is it possible that I fill out 1040 -NR (claiming my wife as dependent) and my wife can fill 1040-NR EZ form (without claiming anybody dependent).
Thanks a lot

NGeorgia:

Sorry, the condition on claiming your dependent when you file 1040NR is that the dependent earns zero income.

Exactly how much did she earn?

Thanks atlanta tax expert
She earned less than 5000 dollars in the year of 2005 (august to December)
Thanks once again
ngeorgia

I see your point about "wasting" her deductions. Unfortunately, I see no alternatives.