Tax payment and also about Re-entry permit

[Kumar_a]

Sir,
I have following two questions, I would greatly appreciate if I someone can answer them,

1) I moved to India two years back and applied for Re-entry permit and it was approved. Now, that as I never had any earnings except for just few dollars in some interest (less than 20 dollars) last year, I was told that it is important to file taxes with nil return to maintain immigration status. When I contacted my CPA, he asked me as when there is no income, how to go about filing taxes. His point seems to be logical, but I dont know how to proceed. Can anyone help me out here as which forms do I need to file and can I file nil returns.

2) My wife's re-entry permit was approved and I received an approval notice, but actual re-entry permit hasnt come yet. I contacted the local embassy and they mentioned I need to check with USCIS and they dont have it. Where should I call to get more information. Also, if we were to travel back to USA, the embassy mentioned that they would give some "transportation document" which can be filled and taken with us. Would that be sufficient along with approval notice.

Any information greatly appreciated.
Thanks,

[Catseyes]

Hi,

I do not think the CPA you consulted gave you the right advice knowing your situation ( LPR with reentry permit ).
To me, you should still have filed 1040 or 1040-EZ, but with '0' for wages and the amount of interests on the right line.

Filing for taxes ( as residents ) ( even if your income was less than 8000$ ) is very important for LPR, especially when there is a reentry permit involved.

You can still file for previous returns. You canb file instructions and previous forms on the IRS website.

For your wife's I131, I do not know, but I would advice to have an appointment at the embassy.