Resident alien J1 research scholar without W2

[Vivimcg]

Hi! I'm a  visa J1 Research Scholar holder since December 2019. Last year, I reported my taxes as a Nonresident alien using Glacier software, but this year the program considered me a Resident alien for taxes purposes because I have been living here for more than 2 years, so I can't use that program. I would like to know how I should report my income, I'm a postdoc, I received a monthly stipend, which is not a scholarship. I didn't receive a W2 or any official documentation. I'll appreciate any advice on this, thank you!

[DaveF1006 · Accepted solution]

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.

1. Go to federal>income and expenses>all income>>show more 
2. Less Common Income> Start
3. Miscellaneous Income,>start 
4. Other reportable income>start
5. Next screen asks Any Other Taxable Income>yes
6. 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.