I have to file dual status return (changed from F1 OPT to H1B on June 2nd, 2010). If I have to itemize the deductions, can I itemize the entire state tax (paid for the full year). If not, how do I get the state tax I paid for the part of the year I was resident? Also, I purchased a car on May 18, 2010. Would I be able to itemize the sales tax on it? (I am from India, and in 1040NR, I can take the standard deduction of $5700 allowed for Indian students).

Hopefully you did NOT file it yourself, because the dual-status return is NOT for amateurs.

You can claim the $5,700 standard deduction as a carry-over of Article 21(2) of the U.S.-India Tax Treaty.

If you need professional tax help with this, email me at [email protected] or [email protected].