Immigration Status, Taxes and You

Filing taxes as an immigrant is an essential process because it allows you to comply with the law requiring that all individuals who earn wages file taxes to the federal government.

Tax season is just around the corner, and with it comes a ton of questions, the largest being whether you should file at all.  Perhaps you don't have a social security number, or you're uncomfortable sharing your information with the IRS.  Whatever your concerns, seeking the answers to your questions can help you make an informed decision.   

If you file taxes correctly and on time, regardless of your immigration status, there will be no adverse effects.  The information you provide the IRS is confidential and is not shared with any other governmental agency with a few exceptions.  The Taxpayer Bill of Rights establishes that a taxpayer has the right to privacy.  Understanding your rights can help ease your mind if you fear, filing will harm you and your family.

There are multiple benefits to paying taxes.  You're eligible to receive a tax refund because often, we pay more than we owe.  There are also other credits such as the Child Tax Credit, that you can only benefit from if you're filing.  Filing taxes is a significant and necessary step in becoming a permanent resident too.  In the naturalization process, one of the requirements is to determine if a person has good moral character. In showing that tax has been paid and filed on time, you're laying the solid groundwork in proving your ethical compass.

One of the biggest stumbling blocks for immigrants at tax time is that many may not have a social security number.  The IRS requires that returns have an identification number.  For those without one, the IRS issues an Individualized Tax Identification Numbers (ITINs).  To get an ITIN, you need to request the W-7 form, and timing is critical because it takes 6-10 weeks to process.

We're here to help answer your questions.  Lewis CPA can help you gain the knowledge and understanding you need to make an informed and educated decision.