Can a noncitizen claim the standard deduction on a tax return?
No, never can a noncitizen claim the standard deduction. If you are a noncitizen you must itemize allowable deductions if you’re either of these:
- A nonresident alien
- A dual-status alien (both a nonresident and a resident alien during the year)
If you’re a nonresident alien married to a U.S. citizen or resident at the end of the year, you can be treated as a U.S. resident.
If you choose to be treated as a U.S. resident for filing purposes, you can claim the standard deduction.
Related Resources
Virtual tax preparations let you complete your taxes online from the comfort of your home. Find out how easy remote tax preparations can be at H&R Block.
Do you have unreimbursed expenses to include on your tax return? Learn how to claim unreimbursed employee expenses with IRS Form 2106.
Are political contributions tax deductible? Before signing a check, learn the difference between charitable giving and political donations at H&R Block.
Spending your time volunteering is a great way to give back. Learn more about the tax benefits for volunteer work when filing your taxes at H&R Block.
