Dual Status Married to Non-resident Alien Tax Return

I worked in the US with an F1 OPT from Jan 1 to Jun 2, 2019, then left the US and re-entered on Jun 23, 2019 to continue working with an H1B visa. In July 30, 2019 I married a non resident alien who is studying in the US with an F-1 Since May 2016. 

 

Can I choose to file as a resident alien "married filing jointly" even though my wife is a non-resident alien? If yes, what are the steps I should take? Does TurboTax or Sprintax work for this situation?

KarenJ2
Expert Alumni

Get your taxes done using TurboTax

If you were in the US for at least 183 days in 2019, then you and your wife can elect to file a married filing jointly 1040 in TurboTax.  You will both need to declare your world-wide income.

 

You will need to attach a statement to the back of your return declaring your choice to file married filing jointly.  That means when you complete your return in TurboTax, you will need to print, add a statement and mail your return.  You will not be able to e-file.

 

Please see page 9 of Publication 519 on Nonresident Spouse Treated as a Resident for more information on the statement to attach.

 

IRS Publication 519 US Tax Guide for Aliens

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