[ashishp108]

Hello,
I was under F1 Status until June 1 2006 after which I got into an OPT until Nov 1 2006 and since that time I have been under H1B. How do I file my tax return and how can I claim more refund based on my 3 situations described above. Thanks

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

Ashishp108:

If you are married, you should be able to file as a resident alien (Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ), which will probably produce the highest refund.

If you are single, you should file as a non-resident alien (Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ). The dual-status return is very complicated and will probably offer you no benefits tax-wise.

What is your country of origin? How much did you make for 2006?

[ashishp108]

I am single and made around $25K for 2006. Country of origin is Tanzania. I was trying to use turbo tax and I am getting all my federal tax refunded since I paid for educatione expenses for the1st half of 2006. Do I still need to fill out the 1040 form? Thanks

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

Since you are single, you CANNOT file as a resident alien. You must file as a non-resident alien, filing Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ

I do not think Tanzania has a tax treaty with the U.S. so there is no treaty exemption.

You probably cannot claim the education costs as an employer business expenses deduction. For sure, you are NOT allowed to claim the standard education credit or adjustment to income.

If you need help filing the Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ, contact me at [email protected].