Receiving Form W-9
If you receive a form W-9 from the Registrar's Office requesting a Social Security number and you do not possess one, please see an advisor in the Kearney International Center for instructions.
Tax Sessions
Kearney International Center coordinates two phases of tax sessions. Please see below for workshop dates. Information provided is for information only to guide you through the forms and procedures- we are not tax preparer professionals so for individual assistance with complex tax issues, you may need to seek professional tax help.
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Phase I -- Filling 8843 Form: Wednesday, March 6 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. in AH 219 or Thursday, March 7 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. in AH 219 - Two sessions per day, each lasts 20 minutes.
For ALL international students-even those who have not worked.
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If you cannot attend or need additional information, see 8843 Presentation. (although the Powerpoint is based on 2012 forms, the instructional information is the same for 2013)
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Phase II -- [PDF] Instructions (2 MiB) - Only for international students that have had any income in the last year (including internships). If you did work and 2012 was between your first and 5th year in the U.S., then follow the instructions to complete federal and state tax forms. If 2012 was your 6th year, then for Tax purposes only, you can file as a US resident (do not follow these instructions).
Why do you file Taxes?
- You may receive an income tax refund
Most international students filling a non-resident tax return receive a tax refund.
- Take advantage of Tax Treaty benefits
Tax treaties reduce tax liability of international students working in the United States. Using tax treaties you can save money and increase your tax refund.
- Meet your requirements for U.S. visa
International students and scholars are required to file your taxes to maintain immigration status. Failing to do so can result in violation of your immigration status.
When do you file Taxes?
The deadline for International Students to file their taxes is on the 15th of April every year.
Who should fill out form 8843
- All international students and scholars must file form 8843 to report their presence in the United States
- If your only U.S. income was interest earned by your U.S. bank account, this is not considered source of income for nonresidents but international students file ONLY the form 8843.
Who should not fill out form 8843
- If you were an international student in the U.S. for more than 5 years, you are considered a resident for federal income tax purposes and you are not required to file Form 8843.
- If you arrived to the U.S. for the first time on F or J visa on January 1st of this year, or later (new to USA and MSU Spring semester and arrived after January 1st)
Tax Forms
- Form 8843 (includes instructions)
- Form 1040, 1040EZ (ONLY if you have been a student in the U.S for 6 or more years)
Tax Filing Resources
