Claim your Tax Back
If you worked at a Summer Camp in America on a J-1 Visa, you may be eligible for a tax refund – and claiming it back is easier than you might think!
Filing your U.S. tax return might sound a little daunting, but with our help and our trusted partner Sprintax, you can complete everything online in minutes – and potentially get hundreds of dollars back.
Why You Should File a Tax Return
All non-residents working in the U.S. – including J-1 visa holders – are required by U.S. law to file a tax return.
But don’t worry! Filing your return isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s also how you get your money back. Most Summer Camp participants are entitled to a refund, so why leave that cash behind?
Who Needs to File
If you were in the U.S. on a J-1 Visa between January 1 and December 31, you’re legally required to file tax documents, even if:
- You didn’t earn any money (you’ll still need to submit Form 8843)
- You had tax deducted from your paycheck
- You only worked a short time
It’s quick, it’s easy, and it keeps your U.S. tax record clean and compliant.
How to File Your U.S. Tax Return
USA Summer Camp has partnered with Sprintax, the leading online tax preparation software for non-residents.
Here’s what you get:
- Easy step-by-step guidance
- IRS-compliant filing
- Secure processing
- State and Federal returns done for you
- Maximum refund guarantee
Create your account and start your return now
– it only takes a few minutes!
What You’ll Need
To get your refund processed smoothly, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Social Security Number (SSN) – assigned to you during camp
- W-2 Form – this comes from your camp employer and shows your total earnings and tax paid
- DS-2019 Form – your Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status
- Passport and Visa – basic ID for your records
- Any State-specific tax information if your camp was in a state that requires it
Top Tips
- Most J-1 visa holders are considered non-resident aliens for tax purposes, meaning you’ll typically use tax form 1040NR.
- Even if you didn’t earn income, you must still file Form 8843.
- You can file yourself through the IRS website, but most people find using Sprintax much easier, especially if you’re not familiar with U.S. tax terms.
- You may also be entitled to claim back State Tax depending on where your camp was located.
Key Dates You Need to Know…
- January – February
You’ll receive your W-2 from your camp - April 15
Deadline to file your Federal (and if applicable, State) tax return for the previous year
Tip: The earlier you file, the sooner you’ll get your refund!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If you were in the U.S. on a J-1 visa, you are legally required to submit Form 8843, even if you didn’t get paid.
In most cases, yes! If your camp deducted Federal or State tax from your paycheck, you may be due a refund once you’ve filed.
Filing is a legal requirement. Not filing could affect your future travel or visa applications to the U.S. It’s best to do it properly and keep your tax record clean.
Yes, but the U.S. tax system can be confusing for non-residents. We strongly recommend using Sprintax, as they specialise in helping J-1 visa holders.
Make the Most of Your Summer
– And Your Refund!
Filing your U.S. tax return doesn’t have to be boring or stressful. In fact, getting a surprise refund months after your camp adventure is a great little bonus – perfect for your next trip, new shoes, or saving for your next big adventure.
So don’t miss out. Claim your refund today and tick ‘taxes’ off your list!