[rootje]

Hi,

During the beginning of '08, I was a J-1 visitor. As such, I was exempt from paying FICA + Medicare.

In December, I received a green card. I informed my employer, and I paid FICA + Medicare for the month
Of December.

It's tax season now, and I have to choose between being a `resident alien' for all of '08 or do a `dual status'
Return.

My question is: if I go for being a `resident alien' the entire year, do I have to pay FICA + Medicare over
January -- November '08 as well? How does this work?

Thanks.

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

You will NOT be liable for the FICA taxes retroactive.

If filing as a resident alien for the entire year is best for you, then file that way.

[IntlTax]

You may not be able to file as a resident for the entire year unless you are married.