Tax matters (OPT, 1099-MISC, married, section 125 benefit plan)
Hi,
Here's my situation. I was a graduate student from Michigan and obtained my Master's degree last April 2006. From Jan to April 2006, I was a teaching assistant receiving stipend monthly. Then from Jun 2006 to Dec 2006, I worked under OPT. My H1B was approved only this year, Jan 2007.
I know I have to file as a nonresident alien with F1 OPT as visa/status and I should not be paying social security and medicare taxes, right?
Now, should I deduct the $3000 exemption from being a student/trainee (Article 22 (1) (a) (ii) to my combined income from school and OPT work?
Also, I have a family back home in the Philippines and they'll be coming over in two months time. Can I claim them as my dependents even though they didn't live with me last year?
There was also a benefit 125 deduction in my W-2 notes. How should I report it?
I got 1099-MISC for winning something online. Where should I put it?
Thanks... I'll appreciate if you can answer my questions... I'm doing my research but I'm still confused...