Tax season is well underway and the International Student and Scholar Services is here to help! The International Office is offering free tax filing assistance for students and scholars who are classified as Nonresident Aliens for Tax Purposes via GLACIER Tax Prep (GTP).
Filing your U.S. tax documents is easier than ever with the GLACIER Tax Prep software for nonresident aliens for tax purposes. GLACIER Tax Prep guides users through a series of questions that automatically prepares a U.S. tax return based upon the answers. The GLACIER Tax Prep software requires an access code in order to activate the software which is available online here.
Please visit our tax website for more detailed information and instructions.
Who Must File?
All nonresident aliens for tax purposes who were present in the U.S. in 2018 (including spouses and dependents) must file Form 8843 even if they did not earn any income from the U.S. in 2018. GLACIER Tax Prep will automatically complete Form 8843 and other applicable forms for all nonresident aliens.
Students, scholars and dependents who are nonresident aliens for tax purposes and earned income from the U.S. in 2018, which includes wages, scholarships, etc. MUST file Form 1040NR or FORM 1040NR-EZ in addition to Form 8843.
What is Needed to File?
You will need your income documents for 2018, which may include Form W-2, Form 1042-S, and any other income documents you may have received.
The Form W-2 will be distributed to those who were paid wages as a part of their employment. If you had multiple employers in 2018, they you will receive a separate Form W-2 from each employer. Those who worked for UT in 2018 can receive their Form W-2 online through Workday.
The Form 142-S will be distributed to those who have claimed tax treaty benefits or had scholarship/fellowship payments in 2018. UT’s Payroll Services has mailed the Form 1042-S as of 2/20/2019. If you were due a Form 1042-S and have not received it, email your name and UT EID to 1042-S@austin.utexas.edu or intltax@austin.utexas.edu to obtain another copy of your Form 1042-S.
Nonresident and Resident Alien for Tax Purposes
GLACIER Tax Prep can only assist those who are considered a “nonresident alien for tax purposes.” GLACIER Tax Prep can assist in determining whether you are a nonresident alien or resident alien for tax purposes. Please note that the tax designation “nonresident or resident for tax purposes” is separate from your immigration status.
Tax Appointments
If you have already completed your tax return through GLACIER Tax Prep and would like to have it reviewed, or if you have a question that is preventing you from completing your return you can make a tax appointment online. The tax appointments are in 30 minute increments and you will be seen within that time frame you have signed up. Be sure to note which documents to bring so that your return can be properly reviewed.
Tax Lab
The International Office will also be hosting Tax Lab on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 10am to 12pm beginning February 26th through April 10th in the FAC 327.
Tax Lab will be an opportunity for international students and scholars to complete their tax returns using GLACIER Tax Prep with a volunteer available for any questions that may arise during the tax filing process. NO appointment is necessary to attend the Tax Lab.
All Tax Returns Must Be Postmarked by April 15, 2019.
