International students are required to file federal and state taxes. If you received or earned money in the U.S. you must file the appropriate tax forms by April 15. If you did not earn money, you are still required to submit form 8843. See details below.
All nonresident aliens (with limited exceptions) who received/earned income in the United States during are liable for federal and state tax and must file tax reporting forms accordingly. The deadline to file is April 15.
UNCW International Programs has purchased a limited number of Sprintax software licenses to assist international students in filing their federal tax returns (form 1040 NR).
If you need help while using Sprintax, contact them:
You also have access to the Sprintax YouTube account where there are a number of educational videos on non-resident taxes to provide further clarity on the subject of using Sprintax and non-resident tax. There is also a Sprintax Blog which go through tax-related topics and can be of use to you.
DISCLAIMER: The Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) and the school are NOT permitted to assist any student/scholar with any IRS tax form preparation or tax related questions. The information provided is intended for your benefit. Any questions or concerns should be directed to Sprintax, a certified tax preparer or a local IRS field office.
If you were an international student in the U.S. but did not earn money, you are still required to submit form 8843 (PDF). This form is a claim for non-residency status.
All students who lived in North Carolina and completed the 1040NR (using Sprintax) should also file North Carolina Taxes. Sprintax can also help you file your state taxes for a reasonable fee of $25.95.
If you wish to complete NC State Tax form D-400 by yourself (without using Sprintax), follow the link to NC State tax forms including fillable D-400.
Students should direct all tax-related questions to the IRS. By calling 800.829.1040 students can speak with an IRS employee who will walk them through forms and filing instructions.
International visitors can also go in person to the local IRS office, located at 3340 Jaeckle Drive, 1st Floor, Wilmington, NC 28403, Phone: 910.254.5198, Hours: M-F 8:30-4:30. Jaeckle Drive is located off Randall Parkway between Kerr Avenue and Covil Avenue.
The Office of International Programs is not trained or licensed to advise in tax law. You'll need to consult tax professionals for specific tax advice. Taxation falls under the IRS (Department of Treasury). The OIP can only advise on immigration law (i.e., how one's immigration status affects their ability to work and enter/stay in the US) which falls under the Departments of Homeland Security, State and Labor. The OIP can not advise on taxation, payroll deductions, tax treaties or how to file a tax return.
International students should visit the IRS website.