February, 2008

 Dear International Student,

As you are aware, all students are required to complete U.S. federal income tax forms each calendar year.  The University purchased a web-based tax return preparation system to assist you in completing the federal tax forms.  The system, CINTAX, is available online and will calculate, prepare and print the appropriate forms for each student, according to the information provided.  The system DOES NOT, however, file the tax returns electronically.  It will print the necessary tax return forms and provide detailed instructions about how, when and where to submit the tax forms.  In order to access the CINTAX software, each student will be assigned a password and must stop by the International Services Office to receive it. Please do not share this password with anyone----this password keeps your information private and secure.  For your information, I have enclosed an instruction sheet for using CINTAX.

The Pennsylvania state tax forms are available in the International Services Office.  You must file a PA tax form if you earned more than $33 in income (wages/salaries) during the 2007 calendar year.  Scholarships and waivers awarded for tuition/fees are exempt from taxes and do not need to be reported.  For your convenience and to reduce paper copies, a sample PA tax form can be accessed by clicking on the following links.

Please note that every student is responsible for preparing and completing his/her own income tax forms.  THE DEADLINE FOR FILING TAX FORMS IS TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2008.  Legally, we can only provide you with informational and instructional materials.  If you have specific questions regarding the materials, please contact the PA Department of Revenue at 724/656-3203 or the Internal Revenue Service (for federal taxes) at 1-800-829-1040.

                                                                                    Sincerely,

                                                                                    Brenda McKissick

                                                                                    International Services

P.S.     Certain countries have established income tax treaty agreements with the U.S for tax exemptions.  If you are claiming a treaty exemption, Form 8233-Exemption from Withholding on Compensation and a Tax Treaty Statement must be completed in the Payroll Office, 203 Old Main.