Nonresident Alien Taxes: Preparing 2008 Federal Income Tax Returns

This Guide will help you to:

• Determine if you are required to file a tax return
• Determine which form or forms you should file
• Understand the filing instructions
• Prepare and submit your own federal tax forms.

The International Office has purchased CINTAX Complete International Tax Preparation, a tax software for nonresident aliens. Launched at UT Austin last year, this software is successful at assisting the majority of UT Austin International students and scholars with preparing the necessary forms.

If you were a nonresident alien for tax purposes, and affiliated with UT Austin during 2008, you may use our CINTAX license, even if you were not employed by the university itself.

Filing federal income tax forms is the personal responsibility of each international student and scholar. Staff members of the International Office have been trained as IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers and they are willing to provide assistance through seminars and scheduled appointments. They have also designed this Guide as a service to help international students and scholars meet their obligations concerning the filing of federal income tax forms. Please be aware that each student/scholar is ultimately responsible for the accuracy of his/her income tax returns and any resulting penalties or interest.

To Prepare Your Taxes:

1. Make sure you have all your documents (W-2, 1042S, etc..)  If you received a scholarship/fellowship, or are claiming tax treaty benefits, you should receive a form 1042s shortly. Do not begin filing your tax return until you have received your 1042-S.
   
   
2. Log-In to CINTAX and follow the instructions:
   • I have a GLACIER login: Login to GLACIER and confirm your immigration information is correct, and enter CINTAX from within GLACIER.
   • I don't have a GLACIER login, but I was a student or scholar affiliated with UT Austin during 2008: Enter CINTAX through UTDirect  (you'll need your UT EID).
   • If you are looking for general information on tax filing, please visit our self-help web page:
     Enter the UT Austin tax website

NOTE: Start by making sure you have all documents (W-2, 1042s, etc.). If you received a scholarship, or are claiming tax treaty benefits, you should receive a form 1042s shortly. Do not begin filing your tax return until you do.