How to file U.S. taxes as an F-1 student

Form 8843 and Form 1040-NR answer different questions. If you want to check residency, filing, or which records to gather first, use the tax tools. The blog covers treaties, FICA, OPT, and state returns.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before you begin, make sure you have all your tax documents ready. You'll need:

• W-2 forms from your employer(s)
• 1042-S forms for scholarship or fellowship income
• 1099 forms (if applicable) for other income
• Your passport and visa information
• Previous year's tax return (if you filed one)

Step 2: Create an Account

Create a TaxCurb account to prepare your return. You can review the filing package price before checkout.

Step 3: Answer Questions

We'll guide you through a series of simple questions about your residency status, income, and deductions. Don't worry about tax jargon—we explain everything in plain language.

Step 4: Review your forms

Review your completed forms carefully in TaxCurb. When you are satisfied, keep them in your account. The Form 1040-NR package is a review draft, not an IRS or state e-file.