Don’t miss credits! File the right form: 1040 vs. 1040-NR

Which tax form should I file — 1040 or 1040-NR?

If you’re a U.S. citizen or resident alien (green card, or visa types like H-1B, L-1, etc. and you meet the substantial presence test) → File Form 1040. You’ll also be able to claim credits like Child Tax Credit, Education Credit, or Earned Income Credit.

If you’re a nonresident alien (visa types like F-1, J-1 students/scholars, B-1/B-2 visitors, or if you don’t meet residency rules) → File Form 1040-NR. Credits are very limited here.

👉 Using the right form is important — filing the wrong one can mean missing out on eligible credits or causing IRS issues.