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Filing U.S. Taxes for NRIs and International Students: A Guide
International students (F-1, J-1, M-1) must file Form 8843 annually; those with U.S. income file Form 1040-NR. State returns may…
From F-1 to H-1B: A Practical Guide for U.S. Employment
New rules add a $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions starting September 21, 2025, and shift selection toward higher wages…
H-1B Payroll and Tax Deductions: Real-World Case Studies Explained
H-1B hires often see lower take-home pay because mandatory federal, state, FICA taxes, and benefit elections reduce gross salaries. Employers…
F-1 FICA Tax Refund: Exemption Rules and How to Claim
F-1 students are generally exempt from FICA during their first five calendar years as nonresident aliens. If payroll withholds Social…
SSN vs ITIN for Non-Residents: Who Qualifies and Why It Matters
Choose SSN if authorized to work; choose ITIN if you must file U.S. taxes but aren’t SSN-eligible. SSN processing is…
Understanding the SSA, SSN, and Employee Benefits in the U.S.
The SSA issues SSNs that link wages to retirement, disability, and survivor benefits and support immigration checks. F-1 students need…
Applying for an SSN as an F-1 Student or H-1B Worker
F-1 students (with CPT/OPT or on-campus jobs) and H-1B employees must apply in person with Form SS-5 and original documents.…
Speed Tape vs. Duct Tape: What It Is, Uses, and Safety
Speed tape is an aluminum-backed adhesive used only for temporary, non-structural aircraft repairs. It tolerates extreme temperatures and airflow, unlike…