According to this IRS source, a J-1 alien cannot exclude U.S. day of presence as a “teacher or trainee” for more than two calendar years, unless they extend their exemption. A student can exclude up to five years with no extensions and file as a non-resident.
At this point, I am not sure if being a Research Scholar classifies you as a student or “teacher or trainee" but if you are the latter, then you meet the criteria for being a resident alien. Here is the criteria.
- Generally, a J-1 alien who spends 122 days in the United States in each year of the 3-year period will meet the Substantial Presence Test for the current calendar year and be considered a U.S. resident. For details on the 3-year look-back formula refer to Substantial Presence Test.
Here is how to report your income as a US resident alien.
- Go to federal>income and expenses>all income>>show more
- Less Common Income> Start
- Miscellaneous Income,>start
- Other reportable income>start
- Next screen asks Any Other Taxable Income>yes
- The next screen will allow you to report the stipend with a brief explanation and the amount.
If after reviewing this and if you determine you are a non-resident, you can file through our affiliate at sprintax.com.
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