Utterly confused about Tax

[smashrun 10]

Ok is there any consensus about the correct way to do this (paper file / efile and/or statement / no statement)???

Seems like we've got people who filed both ways with no problems as yet. This thread is super confusing!!

[LorRenee 6]

The other thing that's confusing is that for some reason if we calculate it, we get 500 dollars less on our return if we include Marks overseas income, than if we don't include it.

[The Mean Lady 604]

The other thing that's confusing is that for some reason if we calculate it, we get 500 dollars less on our return if we include Marks overseas income, than if we don't include it.

Then you're doing something wrong because the income is exempt.

[LorRenee 6]

Then you're doing something wrong because the income is exempt.

Yes I realize that. The werid thiung is that the entire income is shown as exempt. However the mere fact that he has an income on there seems to be throwing it off

[KayDeeCee 4,896]

That's if you want to be treated as a tax resident for part of 2011, not 2012. Being a tax resident for 2012 is a requirement here...

No. That Pub 519 is for the tax year 2011. It is the most recent update for that Pub at the IRS website. It was describing filing taxes for the year 2011, not 2012. The point was the instructions to include a statement to declare your choice to be treated as a US resident on your taxes.

I can 100% guarantee I was treated as a resident for tax purposes and included NO STATEMENT. Our tax was e-filed by H&R block in my maiden name, without issue.

I do not know how H&R Block did yours. I only know the IRS instructions state to include that statement in order to be treated as a US resident for that tax year.

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

I did a write up of where to put the foreign income and how to do the exclusion on TurboTax. It is for people electing to be treated as as a resident alien for tax purposes. It's not covering everybody and every situation. That would be impossible. It's not really to debate right or wrong, or other methods but just a way to do your taxes if you so choose and help you navigate specifically TurboTax. http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/412125-turbotax-help-for-joint-filing-2012/

[Darnell 8,479]

file a paper return with his new SSN.

submit a letter, signed by the two of you, that simply states that the TWO of you ELECT to have him treated as a resident alien for tax purposes in the years you are filing. The two of you sign that letter.

Then work out the stuff in F2555 or F2555EZ.

That's it, pretty much !

Good Luck !

[smashrun 10]

Thanks Nich-Nick and Darnell!! This is good solid information