[raman]

Hi,
Before I start with my question, Thanks to AtlantaTaxExpert for patiently answering the questions to all.It does really help us many reading your posts.
I got most of the information I require from the questions other people have asked.
I am trying to follow this post for my decisions https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showth...ighlight=taxes
I want to make sure what I am doing is right.

I am single and entered US on F1 Aug 2000 and on F1 status and worked in 2004 (on CPT and OPT) until Sept30 2004. Changed to H1 from Oct1 2004.

1) Based on substantial presence test, its less than 183 days, so non-residential alien. (Don't have to do dual status tax forms 1040 NR and 1040)
2) 1040NR or 1040NREz ?
Single,
Income less than 100,000
1040NREz says if interest income is there , use 1040NR instead (not EZ form)
But have received 1099-INT with interest earned amount 400$.
Read in Pub519, that non-residential aliens can exempt interest income from banks. Is my understanding correct?
Then can I file 1040NR Ez? Or do I have to report interest income and file 1040NR?
I received only one 1099-INT for the whole year and not separately for F1 time and H1 time.

3) I can use standard deduction ($4,850) + personal exemption ($3,100), right?

4) have to file 8843 with it

I appreciate your any help on this issue.

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

Raman:

Nice to know someone is benefiting from my sometimes confused answers.

1) You should file as a non-resident alien, as you do not meet the Substantial Presence Test and therefore are not a dual-status alien.

2) Agree that your interest is not taxable and therefore does not have to be reported. For this reason, file Form 1040NR-EZ.

3) You definitely get the personal exemption. You also get the $4,850 standard deduction if you are from India. However, make sure your combined state and local income taxes withheld (plus charitable donations) do not exceed that standard deduction.

4) This should be the last year you need to file Form 8843.