filing tax for refunds/interest

[Prasanna]

Hi all
i did internship during may-dec 2002 and filed tax in 2003. i got ssn/medicare tax refund later that year.i also have interest amount from bank for 2003.But i have not worked the whole year 2003.I am currently in OPT.
I did not have any scholarship or any other such financial aids in 2003.
I am planning to leave to India for good.I was thinking if i need to file so that i do not face any problems if at all i apply for h1-b later.
Should i file tax returns for 2003?.

Thanks in anticipation.

Prasanna.

[siva]

Hi Prasanna,

since you are on OPT, I assume you are on F1 visa. In that case, you need to file tax returns along with Form 8843 even if you don't have taxable income.

If you file tax returns it is for your good and you will not have any problems while applying for H1B.

Siva
snellori@austin.rr.com

[Prasanna]

Thanks Siva.
I have one more question.Can my brother claim me as a dependant when filing returns for 2003. That rules out the possibility of me filling 1040EZ.
One of the clauses of claiming dependancy is passing the substantial presence test.The form 8843 is to
claim that i can exclude days of presence in US for purposes of substantial presence test. (i am not that clear with my understanding of "who must file" this 8843).

As i might be claimed as a dependant i am not sure which form to fill.

Thanks & Regards
Prasanna.