FICA Tax Refund for J-1 Workers

Look at Boxes 4 and 6 on your W-2. If your employer withheld Social Security and Medicare tax (FICA) from your paycheck, there’s a real chance you can get that money back.

Why J-1 workers are often exempt from FICA

Nonresident aliens on a J-1 visa performing services allowed by their visa are generally exempt from FICA tax under IRS rules for nonresident students and exchange visitors. If your employer withheld it anyway — a common mistake when payroll systems don’t flag J-1 status correctly — you’re entitled to a refund.

How to get it back

  1. First, ask your employer to refund the withheld FICA tax directly. This is the fastest path.
  2. If your employer won’t or can’t refund it, you can request the refund from the IRS directly using Form 843, along with a copy of your W-2 and proof of your nonimmigrant status.

How we help

We check your W-2 for FICA withholding as part of your filing, confirm whether you qualify for the exemption, and prepare the paperwork to get it refunded — whether that means contacting your employer or filing directly with the IRS.

Related Guides