The Tax Moves Blog

J1 Go Tax – Helping You Focus on Experiences, Not Paperwork

At J1 Go Tax, we understand that your time in the U.S. should be spent exploring, learning, and creating memories—not stressing over taxes. Our specialized tax services for J1 visa holders ensure that your tax return is filed correctly, quickly, and with the best refund possible. That way, you can focus on your American journey, including discovering the most mysterious places the country has to offer.

Roswell, New Mexico – UFO Capital of the World

When people think of mysterious places in the USA, Roswell is usually at the top of the list. In 1947, an alleged UFO crash near Roswell sparked decades of speculation about extraterrestrials. Today, the town embraces its mysterious reputation with museums, alien-themed shops, and an annual UFO Festival.

For J1 students, Roswell offers a unique mix of history, pop culture, and mystery. Whether you believe in UFOs or not, it’s a place that represents how legends can shape an entire community.

Pro Tip: Visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center, where you can see original documents and learn about America’s fascination with aliens.

👉 Source: Roswell UFO Museum

Area 51, Nevada – The Secret Military Base

Few places are as mysterious as Area 51, the highly classified U.S. Air Force base in Nevada. For decades, Area 51 has been at the center of conspiracy theories about UFOs and secret government experiments. While you can’t actually enter the base (it’s heavily guarded), the surrounding area has become a tourist attraction.

The Extraterrestrial Highway runs near Area 51 and is lined with alien-themed diners, gift shops, and even a small museum. For J1 visa holders spending time in Nevada, a road trip here is both fun and a bit spooky.

Pro Tip: Stop by the Little A’Le’Inn, a quirky diner and motel that celebrates Area 51’s extraterrestrial lore.

Practical Tips for J1 Students Exploring Mysterious Places

Visiting mysterious places in the USA can be thrilling, but J1 students should always keep safety and budget in mind.

• Plan ahead: Some attractions, like Alcatraz or the Winchester Mystery House, require advance ticket reservations.

• Travel in groups: Exploring with friends is safer and makes the experience more fun.

• Budget-friendly options: Many of these sites, like Salem or Roswell, have free or low-cost museums.

• Stay safe: Always share your location with a friend and use your J1 visa insurance if needed.

The Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

Another must-see mysterious site in California is the Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling mansion built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the rifle company owner. Legend says Sarah believed she was haunted by the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles. To appease them, she continuously expanded the house with staircases leading to nowhere, doors opening into walls, and endless rooms.

J1 students will find the house both eerie and fascinating. Guided tours explore the mansion’s strange architecture and haunting legends.

👉 Source: Winchester Mystery House

The Bell Witch Cave, Tennessee – America’s Most Famous Haunting

Known as one of the most famous hauntings in American history, the Bell Witch legend centers around a family in early 19th-century Tennessee who claimed to be tormented by a spirit. The story became so widespread that even President Andrew Jackson allegedly visited the Bell family farm.

Today, J1 students can tour the Bell Witch Cave, where many say the spirit still lingers. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the site offers a chilling experience.

Point Pleasant, West Virginia – The Mothman Legend

In the 1960s, residents of Point Pleasant reported sightings of a mysterious winged creature known as the Mothman. The legend became so popular that it inspired books, documentaries, and even a Hollywood movie.

The town celebrates its eerie fame with the Mothman Museum and an annual Mothman Festival. For J1 students looking to explore offbeat American folklore, this small town is worth the visit.

👉 Source: Mothman Museum

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California – Haunted Prison

Known as “The Rock,” Alcatraz Island was once home to America’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone. While it was a high-security prison, many stories of ghost sightings and mysterious events have been reported there.

Today, Alcatraz is a popular tourist attraction. The night tours are particularly haunting, as guides share chilling stories of prisoners, escapes, and alleged paranormal activity. For J1 students staying in California, visiting Alcatraz offers a mix of history and mystery.

👉 Source: Alcatraz Island Tours

St. Augustine, Florida – America’s Oldest (and Haunted) City

As the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S., St. Augustine is full of history—and mystery. Many of its colonial buildings and forts are said to be haunted. The Castillo de San Marcos is one of the most visited spots, where ghost sightings have been reported for centuries.

J1 visa students working in Florida will find St. Augustine both educational and spooky, especially if they join one of the city’s popular ghost tours.

Core Guides & Calculators

1. Learn everything about J1 visa taxes — our complete 2026 step-by-step guide for nonresident workers with W-2 income.

2. Estimate your refund instantly with our J1 visa tax calculator — no signup required.

3. Compare Form 1040 vs 1040NR for J1 visa holders and find out which one applies to you.

4. Understand the importance of your DS-2019 form — it defines your program, tax status, and eligibility.

Forms & Tax Documents

5. Did you receive a 1099 instead of a W-2? Here’s what to do — Form 1099 for J1 visa workers explained.

6. Learn how to apply for your SSN or ITIN as a J1 visa holder before filing your taxes.

7. Understand your IRS transcripts for J1 visa taxes — what they show and how to request them.

8. Received a Form 1042-S? Discover what it means and how to include it in your tax return.

9. Find your Form W-2 for J1 visa — and learn what each box means when you file.

10. File correctly using the official Form 1040NR for J1 visa holders — step-by-step.

11. Don’t forget your Form 8843 — it’s mandatory even if you had no income.

12. Check this J1 visa tax return example using Form 1040NR to understand how everything fits together.

Special Cases & IRS Resources

13. Missed the April deadline? Learn how to file J1 visa taxes after April and still get your refund.

14. Review official IRS guidance on Taxation of J-1 visa holders and resident status.

You may also like