MN state residency status

[sunpods]

Hello all,

I have a quick question regarding my state resident status for the year 2020.

Background: I am a resident alien for tax purposes and an international student attending a college in MN since 2016.

Due to COVID-19, I went back to my home country and have been out of the country since April 2020.

Apartment status: Even though I was not present at my apartment, I had to keep my apartment lease (1-year lease) till the end of July 2020. I signed another lease for the 2020-2021 academic year in March 2020 but transferred my lease to another person (takeover) in July 2020 as I decided to take a gap year.

I am returning to MN to continue my study in Fall 2021. 

What is my MN resident status for the year 2020 for tax purposes?

I really appreciate all of your help and advice!

[ToddL99 · Accepted solution]

You were a resident of MN for all of 2020, and continue to be a MN resident until you take steps to change your status.

If you resided in MN, were a resident alien for US tax purposes prior to COVID, and intend to return to MN, then you remained a MN resident during your COVID-related absence.

 From tne Minnesota Deportment of Revenue's Domicile (Residency) for Individuals:

“Domicile” is the place you intend to make your home permanently or for an indefinite period of time.

Once you establish your domicile in Minnesota, it continues until you take actions to change it. If you move out of Minnesota, but do not intend to permanently remain in another state or country, you continue to be a Minnesota resident.