As a member of the UConn Health international community, it is important for you to be aware of your U.S. income tax obligations. The International Office can provide resources and guidance, but cannot provide individual tax advice. Please seek professional tax advice from a qualified accountant if you have specific questions or need clarifications on your tax situation.
Tax FAQ’s
Q: What is “income?”
A: Income refers to any money you have received from a U.S. source. This includes stipends, salary, hourly pay, etc.
Q: Am I a resident or non-resident?
A: Under U.S. tax laws, all non-U.S. citizens and non-permanent resident aliens are considered to be either "resident aliens" or "nonresident aliens." Residency status rules for tax purposes are governed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the U.S. Treasury Department. The residency status rules for tax purposes are related to, but are not the same as, the residency status rules for immigration purposes. During orientation, the International Office helps you determine your residency status for tax purposes.
Q: What about tax treaties?
A: If a country has a tax treaty benefit, you will receive some additional IRS forms with regards to your specific tax situation.
Q: Is there software I can use to help prepare my taxes?
A: While we cannot recommend specific tax software for students to use, the dominant tax preparation software used by UConn Health internationals is Arctic/Glacier Tax Prep or Sprintax. Access to this program can be purchased to prepare Nonresident Alien tax forms, including the 1040 NR, 1040NR-EZ, 8843 and W-7.
Q: Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN)?
A: If you worked (i.e. – received compensation for your services), then you must have a SSN.
Q: How do I apply for a SSN?
A: You must apply in person. The International Office will provide you with a letter at your Orientation. You will present this letter along with your other important identification documents: passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019, I-94. The two closest Social Security offices are in New Britain and Hartford. For more information, please visit https://www.ssa.gov/
Q: When will I receive my W-2?
A: W-2s are available online through Core-CT. Please contact HR Employee Resource Center if you have questions on Core-CT: 860-679-2426.
Q: I received a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, asking for my Social Security number and saying that I owe money. Is this legitimate?
A: Beware of scams! Scammers often try to impersonate the IRS to steal a person’s identity or extort money from them. The IRS does not call individuals asking for personal information or demanding payment, so if this happens to you then hang up right away. You can review more information about Tax Scams
Additional Resources
U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens (IRS Publication 519)
U.S. Tax Treaties (IRS Publication 901)
Helpline for Federal Tax Assistance
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program: 1-800-829-1040
Check on a refund: 1-800-829-4477
Hartford IRS Office
135 High St.
Hartford, CT 06103
Office Information: 860-594-9200
Contact
Questions from internationals on the UConn Health payroll can be directed to:
Ms. Jaishree Duggal
Human Resources Officer
860-679-4430
duggal@uchc.edu
Questions from internationals under contract with UConn Health should be directed to the Accounts Payable Department, 860-679-3942.