Taxes

Due to recent changes made in the U.S. Tax Code, everyone in F or J status must file a tax return each year, regardless of whether or not he or she earned any income. Two forms must be filed – Form 1040NR (or 1040NREZ) and Form 8843. Tax workshops for international students and scholars are offered in the spring before the tax filing deadline (April 15). It is essential to comply with tax reporting requirements.

Other visa holders may or may not need to file tax returns. Information about reporting requirements is available in the Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs and The International Recruitment and International Services Office.

Many people, especially students, who come to the United States want to get a Social Security card. Despite restrictions on the issuance of Social Security numbers, it still is possible to obtain a Social Security card. F and J visa holders may come to the International Recruitment and International Services Office and get a letter formally requesting the Social Security Administration to issue them a Social Security card.

Social Security Information

To obtain a social security number, you will need to go to the local Social Security Administration Office. Take your passport and Form I-94 (it should be in your passport), and if you are a J-1 visa holder, your DS-2019, and if you are an F-1 visa holder, your I-20, and the letter issued by The International Recruitment and International Services Office. You can pick up an application from the International Student Advisor (Loretto Hall 55). After you have given the attendant your documents, ask for a receipt. Your social security card should be issued within 1 to 3 months.

The location of the nearest Social Security Administration Office is:

8151 Clayton Road, 3^rd Floor

St. Louis, MO 63117

(It is located across the street from the Galleria, and next to Linens ’N Things in the Truman State Bank building on the 3^rd floor. Go to the right after getting off the elevator.)