Question
Can a noncitizen claim the standard deduction on a tax return?
Answer
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.
