Tax Information for Fiscal Year 2005

One of America's founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, once said, "In this world there is nothing certain but death and taxes" (1789 letter). This is not just for Americans - International students in the United States must also file tax forms each year!

If you have a job on or off campus, you will receive a W2 form from your employer in January. The W2 form states exactly how much money you have earned the previous year, and how much money has already been taken out of your pay for tax purposes. You will use this form to help fill out tax Form 1040NR-EZ or 1040NR. You also need to fill out Form 8843.

If you do not have a job, you STILL have to file a tax form! All international students need to file Form 8843, even if you did not work or have any kind of US income.

Unfortunately, staff members of International Student Programs are not trained to assist international students at Hope with their taxes. It is a complex issue because there are so many variables involved.

However, we do want to help you as much as we can! This page contains links to other websites that will help you determine what action(s) you should take. It is your responsibility to make sure that you follow the law. If you fail to file certain forms and/or pay taxes, you may face serious financial and/or immigration penalties.

1. Where can I find background information on tax issues for international students?
   Answer: The IRS has a special section for International Taxpayers.
2. Where can I find forms and publications for federal (IRS) and state (FTB) taxes?
   Answer: www.irs.gov and www.ftb.ca.gov
3. Do some of the larger universities have useful websites?
   Answer: Yes! One of the best ones is found at the University of Texas at Austin. The site will take you through the tax forms step by step to help you know exactly how to fill them out.
4. Is there a website that specializes in helping international students?
   International Student Taxes charges low fees to help you file your taxes. If you have a complicated case, they are a great resource for specific questions!
5. Which local companies can I go to for help with taxes?
   H & R Block is the leading chain of tax return preparation offices. There are several local branches nearby:
• 908 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea; Phone: (714) 529-0818
• 1577 S. Harbor Blvd., Fullerton; Phone: (714) 680-4167
• 1826 N. Placentia Placentia; Phone: (714) 577-9697
• 20509 Yorba Linda Yorba Linda; Phone: (714) 779-6911