Hello, I wanted to double check if the steps that I'm taking are correct.
I have changed my status from F-1 to H-1B on October 2, 2023. My wife has changed from F-1 to H4. We are both nonresident aliens for tax purposes for 2023. Just a note that we've been in the US after October 2, 2023 till the end of the year.
1) I want to make a first-year choice to become a dual-status alien, by being a resident alien after October 2, 2023, but I need to pass the substantial presence test for 2024 (around May-June).
2) So, I and my wife want to file form 4868 to get an extension to file to pass the substantial presence test for 2024.
3) Since I'm considered a resident by the end of 2023 by first-year choice, I want to make a choice of treating my nonresident spouse as a resident for the whole 2023 year and also become a resident for the whole 2023 year myself, so that we can file a joint return for 2023. https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/nonresident-spouse
4) Attach these two choices in a printed statement with signatures with the federal tax return.
So my questions are:
1) Is the process that I want to follow correct and will it allow me to file jointly for 2023?
2) When filing form 4868, should we file it separately or together?
3) When filing form 4868 and making balance due estimation. Should we make this estimation as nonresidents (form 1040NR) filing separately (since we did not meet the substantial presence test yet) or should I make this estimation as residents (form 1040) filing jointly (since we plan to file jointly by attaching the statement of making choices above)?
4) Is it possible to file form 4868 online?
5) Can I attach the statement (stating the choices that I make) with signatures when filing federal return electronically? Or should I file it by mail?
6) Should we write the statement by hand or can I print it and put the signatures on it?
7) Do I need to explain why I'm filing late in the statement with federal return even after filing 4868? Will there be any late filing penalties?
Thank you so much!
