Hi guys,

I moved to US from my home country in later half of the year 2008 under H-1B alone (with my family back in my home country). My questions are:
1. Since I was single in US (though I have wife and kids back home), I think I should file as a single. Am I correct?
2. Do I qualify for 600 $ rebate for 2008?

Thanks
soms

You have two choices:
Choice 1: If you did not complete SPT in 2008, you can file non-resident tax return Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ.

Choice 2: You can file resident tax return as Married Filing Jointly. You will have to wait till you meet the Substantial Presence Test in 2009.

You will get standard deduction of $10,900 and exemptions for both of you.

You must both declare your worldwide income for 2008.

You will complete forms W7 (application for ITIN) for your spouse and attach with your tax return.
You can also deduct moving expenses.
Read about H1-B tax filing: Your U.S. Tax Return: The U.S. Visas