Yes, H2B visa workers who are lawfully present in the United States must pay taxes on their earnings. They are subject to the same federal income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes as U.S. citizens.
Why Taxes Matter for H2B Workers
Paying taxes is not optional. The government uses the money to fund public services, and the tax record helps you qualify for benefits like the ACA Marketplace.
Types of Taxes You’ll Pay
- Federal income tax – based on your yearly wages.
- Social Security tax (6.2% of wages) – funds retirement and disability benefits.
- Medicare tax (1.45% of wages) – funds health coverage for seniors.
- State income tax – varies by state; some states have no income tax.
How Taxes Affect Your ACA Marketplace Eligibility
When you file a tax return, the IRS reports your income to the ACA Marketplace. This determines whether you qualify for premium subsidies. Paying taxes on time ensures you receive the correct amount of help.
For more details on ACA eligibility, see our facts page.
Common Tax Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming you are exempt because you are on a temporary visa.
- Failing to claim the correct filing status (most H2B workers file as "single").
- Not keeping pay stubs that show taxes were withheld.
- Missing the April filing deadline.
FAQ
- Do I have to file a federal tax return? Yes. If you earned any wages, you must file a Form 1040.
- Can I claim the Earned Income Tax Credit? No. The Earned Income Tax Credit is not available to non‑resident aliens, even if you have a work visa.
- Will paying taxes affect my immigration status? Paying taxes does not affect your visa status, but a clean tax record can be useful for future immigration applications.
- What if my employer did not withhold taxes? You are still responsible for paying them. Use Form 1040‑ES to make estimated payments.
Next Steps
Now that you know you must pay taxes, you can focus on getting affordable health coverage. The ACA Marketplace offers plans with $0 premiums for many low‑income workers.
Need help enrolling? Call 859-407-4888 for free enrollment assistance or start the process online at our sign‑up page.