Hi! I came to US in Aug 2007 on F-1 visa. Last year I filed my taxes through 1040NR-EZ and obviously didn't get any stimulus check. But many other people I know who were having the same visa status as mine filed using the Turbo-tax and got check for $300 or so. They ll get $300 this year too using the Turbo-tax. And now I got married in Dec 2008. My wife came to US in Jan '09 on F-2 visa.She has no income in 2008 and neither has any SSN. Can anyhow I can get the stimulus check and benefits of filing the taxes as married together.

What 'll be the best option for me in this case?

Thanks in advance!!

On F1/OPT you are exempt from residency for 5-years. You must file non-resident tax return Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ and Form 8843. Your income is not subject to FICA taxes but you must pay federal and state income taxes.


On your income you will get deduction based on tax treaty between the U.S. and your country. You will not get stimulus rebate. All those who got stimulus rebate may have filed resident tax return, which was not the proper return for F1 students.

Read: Your U.S. Tax Return: U.S. Tax Filing Requirements for Non-Residents

Thanks a lot!! I am going to file 1040NR using Cintax.