2026 Tax Season: What to Expect

Source: https://iss.washington.edu/2025-tax-season-what-to-expect/ Parent: https://iss.washington.edu/

The 2026 tax season is here! Filing taxes in the United States can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re filing for the first time as an international student. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process, understand key dates, and access helpful resources.

Who Needs to File Taxes?

As an international student on an F-1 or J-1 visa, you are required to file certain tax forms even if you didn’t earn any income during the year. International Student Services provides a free-to-use program called Glacier Tax Prep to help you through this process. We anticipate the software being available in the coming days.

Key Tax Forms to Know

• Form 8843: Required for all F-1 and J-1 visa holders, regardless of income.
• Form 1040NR: For nonresidents who earned income in the U.S.
• W-2: Provided by your employer if you earned wages. It reflects your earned wages.
• 1042-S: Issued for certain scholarships, fellowships, or treaty benefits.

Important Dates for 2026

• January 26: Beginning of the tax season. The IRS will begin accepting tax returns.
• Mid-February: Glacier Tax Prep will become available (exact date to be confirmed).
• April 15: Federal and state tax return filing deadline.
• June 15: Form 8843 due (if filing this form only)

Resources to Help You File

• Glacier Tax Prep (GTP): A tax preparation software specifically for nonresidents, provided free of charge to UW international students.
• UW VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance): A local program to help prepare both domestic and international student returns.
• Federal Tax Clinic: UW Law program that helps resolve disputes with the Internal Revenue Service.

Tips for a Smooth Tax Filing Experience

• Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Gather your documents, learn about the process, and explore resources.
• Double-Check for Benefits: Certain treaty benefits may apply to you.
• Meet the Deadlines: Filing late could lead to penalties, so plan ahead.

Need Help?

Attend the U.S. Tax Workshop sponsored by the Federal Tax Clinic and ISS later in February!