Frequently Asked Questions

Displaying 1 - 3 of 3

How can GLACIER Tax Prep help me complete my tax forms?

GLACIER Tax Prep includes a tax resource library and a comprehensive tax preparation program that:

  • Calculates the substantial presence test to determine the foreign national's U.S. tax residency status.
  • Checks each type of payment against any applicable tax treaty to ensure that the individual takes advantage of any tax treaty benefits.
  • Completes the correct U.S. federal income tax form - either Form 1040NR or Form 1040NR-EZ
  • Prepares any additional statements or attachments, as applicable - Form 8843, Schedule C, and/or Scholarship/Fellowship Grant Statement.
  • Prints the federal tax return and all additional attachments.
  • Provides detailed instructions about how, when and where to submit the tax forms, as well as information about the required documents to attach and complete the federal tax return filing process.

If I have been here for over five years and have no income at all do I have to file taxes?

If you have no income, you do not have to file a tax return. However, if you are an exempt individual in F, J, M, or Q status, you should submit a Form 8843. 

What happens if I don’t send in Form 8843?

Form 8843, Statement for Exempt Individuals and Individuals Claiming a Medical Condition is required by the regulations to be submitted by all individuals in F, J, M, or Q status who are exempt from counting days for purposes of the substantial presence test (the 183-day residency formula). The form should be attached to Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ if you have a return filing obligation. Otherwise, the Form 8843 should be signed and dated and submitted separately.