Do I need to file a US tax return?
Yes. Everyone who has worked in the US is required to submit a tax declaration, regardless of how much you earned. This requirement applies to all J-1 visa holders.
Prior to January 2018, there was a "Personal Exemption" that meant anyone earning $4,050 or less was exempt from filing. This exemption has been removed, so all participants must now file.
If you did not earn any income while in the US (for example, if your placement was canceled before you started work), you should still file Form 8843. This form confirms your non-resident alien status with the IRS.
What is the difference between Federal and State tax?
There are 2 types of tax in America. Federal tax is a blanket tax that covers every part of the US. State tax varies from state to state. You will need to complete a tax declaration for both.
What is a W2 form?
The W2 is a summary of your earnings at camp, including details of the tax you have paid. Your camp is required to provide this by January 31st of the following year. In most cases, it is available online through the camp's payroll system.
It is important to file your return under the correct category of J visa, as shown in box 4 of your DS-2019. Your tax provider can help you with this.
If you do not receive your W2 by the end of January, the first step is to contact your camp directly.
When is the filing deadline?
US taxes must be filed by April 15th of the year following your camp program. For example, if you worked at camp in summer 2026, you must file by April 15, 2027.
How do I file my taxes?
There are 2 main options:
Use a specialist tax service that handles returns for non-resident aliens. These companies understand J-1 requirements and can prepare all necessary documents for you. See the section below for recommended providers.
File yourself using the IRS website. This is possible, but it is important to do your research and follow all instructions carefully. Filing incorrectly may result in further costs.
Important: Do not use TurboTax. TurboTax is designed for US residents and should not be used by J-1 participants.
What specialist services are available?
Several companies specialize in tax returns for J-1 participants and understand the specific requirements for non-resident aliens. They can help you prepare all necessary documents, including Federal and State tax returns and Form 8843.
Sprintax is a secure online service with live chat support, used by over 200,000 non-residents each year to prepare their tax forms. Enter discount code 10F25SE500 for a $10 discount.
RT Tax is an affordable option with over 20 years of experience handling US tax returns for non-residents.
Mag Tax is another affordable option with a 15% discount for Smaller Earth applicants.
Camp Leaders cannot provide tax advice, but your local office can point you in the right direction.
Will I get a tax refund?
After completing your tax declaration, you will receive official confirmation of whether you have overpaid or underpaid on Federal and State tax. If you have overpaid, you will receive a refund. Your tax provider can help you understand what to expect.
As a returning participant, what about summers before 2018?
The Personal Exemption was only removed in January 2018, so for summers before that, a tax declaration was not required if you earned $4,050 or less.