[religious work]

I came to the States on an R1 visa and stayed in NYS for the whole year 2009. My earnings is less than $2000. Do I need to file a tax return?

[MukatA]

If it is wages, then you are not required to file.

If it is self employed income, you must file the tax return. You will report your income and business related expenses on schedule C or C-EZ (Form 1040). Then you put net income (or loss) on line 12 of Form 1040. This income is subject to SE tax at 15.3% (this is shown on line 57 of Form 1040). Your U.S. Tax Return: Tax Filing by Self Employed Sole Proprietor or Independent Contractor

[religious work]

Thank you very much for your advise.

What is the minimum wage you need to earn as an R1 worker before you need to file a tax return?

[MukatA]

You have work visa. You pay taxes just like a U.S. citizen or resident. For self employed income, you must file tax return if income is $400 or more. Your U.S. Tax Return: 2009 Filing Requirements for Most Taxpayers