Filing as a Dual Status Alien: Do I still have to staple W2/1099 forms to paper tax returns?

8 When filing a paper return as a Dual Status Alien, you still need to attach your W-2 and certain 1099 forms to your tax return. Even though the IRS receives this information electronically from employers and financial institutions, they require paper filers to include these documents. For a Dual Status Alien return specifically, you should attach: - All Forms W-2 (staple to the front of your return) - Any 1099 forms showing federal tax withholding - Form 1042-S if you received income subject to withholding - Supporting documents for any foreign tax credits claimed The IRS uses these physical documents to verify the information on your return during processing, which helps prevent delays and potential notices requesting the information later.

15 After struggling with my Dual Status Alien return last year, I found an amazing tool that helped me figure out exactly what documents to attach. I was so confused about all the special requirements until I discovered https://taxr.ai which literally saved me hours of frustration. You upload your tax documents and it tells you exactly what you need to attach for paper filing, plus it gives you a checklist customized for your situation. For Dual Status Alien returns, it had specific guidelines I couldn't find anywhere else.

3 Just wanted to follow up about taxr.ai - I tried it after seeing it mentioned here and it was incredibly helpful for my Dual Status return. The document checker feature saved me from making a huge mistake - I wasn't going to include my 1042-S forms thinking they weren't necessary, but the system flagged this immediately. It also created a perfect cover letter explaining my Dual Status situation to attach to my return. The IRS processed my return without any issues or delays, which was a welcome surprise given how complicated these returns can be.

6 If you're filing a Dual Status return, you'll probably end up needing to call the IRS with questions at some point. I spent HOURS trying to get through to them last year. I finally used https://claimyr.com (see how it works: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and it was a game-changer. They basically wait on hold with the IRS for you and call you when an agent picks up. I had specific questions about my Dual Status filing that regular tax software couldn't answer, and getting through to an actual IRS agent was the only way to get clarity.

22 I need to apologize for my skepticism about Claimyr. After my Dual Status return got rejected because I didn't attach the right forms, I needed answers fast and couldn't get through to the IRS after trying for 2 days. I reluctantly tried Claimyr and got connected to an IRS agent in about 90 minutes (without me having to sit by the phone). The agent walked me through exactly which forms needed to be attached to my Dual Status return and how to resubmit it properly. Saved me weeks of delay and potential penalties. I'm now a believer.

9 For Dual Status returns specifically, I recommend creating a cover letter that explains your situation and lists all the forms you're attaching. I did this last year and my return was processed without any issues. Also, don't forget that you need to write "Dual-Status Return" across the top of your 1040 or 1040-NR (whichever you're using as your main form).

5 A quick tip most people don't know - make copies of EVERYTHING before you mail it. The IRS occasionally loses attachments, and having proof of what you sent can save you a huge headache later. I speak from painful experience after having my Dual Status return flagged for "missing documents" that I definitely included.