Tax Information
The Facts of
Taxes
Understand your tax obligations.
All international students and scholars must file certain tax forms, whether or not you've earned income. In addition, F-2 and J-2 dependents must also file certain tax forms. If you fail to file taxes, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can assess penalties and interest, and can seize U.S. bank assets for payment. Fines and penalties often amount to more than original tax debt. There can also be immigration consequences for failing to file taxes. Applicants for permanent residency are frequently asked to provide proof of tax filing. The VITA Tax assistance program at UW-Green Bay can provide assistance to students. Please make sure when you meet with them they know you are a F-1 or J-1 student.
What Tax Forms To File
You'll file different forms based on your income. These forms only apply if you were physically present in the U.S. during the tax year (January 1-December 31).
If You Did Not Receive Income
File Form 8843 only.
If You Have Dependents & Earned Income
Dependents are spouses and/or children. Income can be from jobs, internships, scholarships, grants, etc. File:
- Form 8843
- Form 1040NR (Federal Form)
- Form 1NPR (Wisconsin State Form)
If You Don't Have Dependents But Earned Income
For international students and scholars who don't have dependents but earned income, file:
- Form 8843
- Form 1040NR-EZ (Federal Form)
- Form 1NPR (Wisconsin State Form)
Required Information
You will need a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to complete the Federal 1040 NR, Federal 1040NR-EZ and State 1NPR forms.
- If you do not have a SSN or ITIN at the time you file taxes, you may apply for an ITIN in conjunction with filing your tax return.
- You do not need a SSN or ITIN to file Form 8843.
You'll also need any tax statements supplied by your employer, university, bank, etc. The most common forms students and scholars receive are:
- Form W-2 for wages and earnings
- Form 1042-S for tax exempt payments due to a tax treaty
- Form 1099 for interest earned on bank accounts
- Form 1098T for Tuition Payments
Note, you may receive additional and/or different forms depending on your own personal circumstances, such as if you own a home, earned income through investments, etc.
Individual Taxpayer ID Number
An Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. It's used for individuals who will need a US taxpayer identification number, but will not be obtaining employment. Most often students who have scholarships (not tuition remissions) will need an ITIN number. ITIN’s are used for federal tax reporting only. It will take about six weeks to receive your ITIN card.
Apply for an ITIN Card
- Meet with an advisor in the Office of International Education to apply for an ITIN number.
- Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, Passport and I-94 arrival card with you to the appointment.
- During the appointment, you will complete a form W-7 that will be submitted on your behalf.
How to File
There are numerous ways to file your tax returns. We cannot provide individualized tax advising and/or filing assistance, so consult appropriate tax accountants and resources as necessary.
Do It Yourself
download instructions and forms directly from the Internal Revenue Service and Wisconsin Department of Revenue to complete and mail independently.
Utilize Software
UW-Green Bay has contracted with Sprintax, an intuitive software will ask questions to help complete necessary tax forms. You can file your returns electronically and receive any refund directly into a U.S. bank account. There is a fee, but it varies based on your tax return.
Consult Experts
You can consult local tax consultants/representatives for personalized filing assistance. Please note that charges vary widely for tax professionals, and many will not file nonresident returns due to the complexity of tax treaty articles, etc.
For UW Employees
UW Employees compensated though the payroll system may file federal returns via Glacier. While helpful in preparing returns, please keep in mind that Glacier is unable to electronically return or prepare Wisconsin State forms. If you utilize Glacier, you will need to mail your completed tax forms and make separate arrangements for State filing.
Refunds
You may receive a refund from either the Federal Government or State of Wisconsin. Be advised the refunds are issued in U.S. dollars and my only be direct deposited in U.S. bank accounts. If you are completing your returns from outside the United States, you will be mailed a check.
Need More Information?
Though we cannot help you file tax returns or give advice, we can direct you to necessary resources.