Moved to California in August

hertz · Post by **hertz** » Mon Mar 26, 2012 12:19 am

I moved to California from Canada in early August 2011. I know I have to file a 1040NR/540NR since I don't pass the substantial presence test but have a few more questions about the process for this year.

1) Since I'm filing a 1040NR does that mean I can't take the standard deduction?

2) Am I allowed to take a personal exemption on the 1040NR?

3) I've read that I can make a first-year choice to file as a resident for 2011 (http://www.irs.gov/publications/p519/ch ... 1000222172). Is it worth filing a tax extension to do this so I can get the standard deduction? Or am I misunderstanding what the first year choice actually is?

4) Any other tax tips I should know about to minimize the amount I pay in taxes for 2011?

hertz · Post by **hertz** » Mon Mar 26, 2012 12:23 am

Also, is there any software I can use to e-file in my situation? Or will I have to print out the forms and do it all myself?

JGCA · Post by **JGCA** » Mon Mar 26, 2012 4:18 pm

THe quick answer is no standard deduction allowed under normal filing. However as a CND under treaty you can file a full yr 1040 and take all deductions, read the many many post on this forum about this.