Help From the IRS

The IRS publishes all versions of their forms and publications annually so please look for the 2008 versions when visiting their website at IRS Forms and Publications page if you do not wish to wait for paper versions to arrive at locations near you.

Some useful publications for international students are listed below:

• Publication 515, Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Entities
• Publication 519, US Tax Guide for Aliens: This must be looked at every year as many things do change. It provides detailed information on a variety of issues that includes information not presented in the instruction booklet.
• Publication 901, US Tax Treaties: This booklet provides summaries of tax treaty benefits and must be looked at each year as treaties do change.
• Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education
• Taxation of Nonresident Aliens

The best place to start when you have a question about your tax return is the IRS website. There is an extensive Frequently Asked Questions section and International Taxpayer section that may assist in answering your questions.

You may also call the IRS for live telephone assistance (800-829-1040, toll-free). Be sure to identify the type of form you are filing so the IRS can better respond to your question. Also, note for your tax records the time, date, name and number of the representative assisting you. Please refer to the IRS Telephone Assistance page for more information on contacting IRS by phone.

If you have further questions on Tax Law, you can e-mail IRS as directed in the IRS Help With Tax Questions - International Taxpayers page. Please note that IRS does not handle tax account or refund questions via e-mail due to privacy and security reasons.