Hi,
I'm Italian but have lived in London for the past 5 years with my husband, also Italian. I arrived in Boston (MA) 2 months ago under a J2 Visa (my husband is doing a postdoc on a J1). While waiting for my work permit I'm looking for jobs and I am trying to understand a couple of things:
1. How can I calculate how much of my salary I will pay in tax? (both federal, state and any other tax I need to pay); I expect to apply for jobs between 65K and 90K
2. Is there any change on how much tax I pay if I have a J2 visa or an H1 (in case I find a company that would be willing to sponsor me)?
3. Is there any difference on how much tax I pay being a full-time employee or a freelancer?
Thanks,
M x

If your husband's salary is considered "exempt" as a researcher, only YOUR salary will be taxed.

You will file as a non-resident alien and you can claim exemption from FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes for 2012 and 2013. Starting on 1 January 2014, you become liable for Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) at the percentages noted.

Your effective federal tax rate will be about 15%.

You can find the Massachusetts tax rates at the link below:

The Tax Foundation - State Individual Income Tax Rates, 2000-2012