F1 to H1 - just 5 days on F1
To Atlantataxexpert
I have followed your posts on this forum and request your advice on my case. I am an Indian citizen working on H1B. My H1 started on Jan 6, 2005 and I was on OPT (F1) from Jan 1 to Jan 5, 2005, I was outside the US from Dec 5 to Dec 31, 2005. If I am not wrong, I pass the substantial presence test for 2005. Do I have to file returns as a dual status alien considering that I was on F1 for only five days of the year or can I file as a resident alien ignoring the 5days on F1? Would exercising the 'first year choice' option be more suitable? In which case are the returns typically more - resident alien filing or a dual status alien filing?
Thanks.