Hello,

I am currently on F1 since 2007 and worked in 2008 on CPT for 3 months and in the university as a TA. I have a few questions here regards tax filing, which I will be so grateful to have answers for:
1. Can F1 file taxes online?
2. My wife joined me in USA in Nov 2008. She has been on F2 dependent visa and has no income whatsoever as is law. Does she have to file any kind of taxes - is it required? If yes, is it joint with me or any other forms?


Thanks,
Rocky

On F1 visa you are nonresident for 5 years. You will file form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ and Form 8843. You will get personal exemption of $3,500. You are exempt from FICA taxes but you will pay income taxes.
Your wife must file Form 8843.


Since you are from India you will get standard deduction of $5,450 (instead of itemized deductions). You will get exemption of $3,500 for your spouse only if spouse did not have any income in 2008.
Read: Your U.S. Tax Return: U.S. Tax Filing Requirements for Non-Residents

1) You CANNOT file Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ on-line. It MUST be mailed.

2) Because you are an Indian citizen on a F-1 visa, you CAN claim your wife as a dependent, but only if you file Form 1040NR. Further, she will have to sign and submit Form W-7 WITH the tax return to get an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN).