SS and medicare tax

[max100]

I'm starting my second year on a J-1, after 6 on an F-1.
i've been paying social security tax and medicare tax, and i'm not sure if i should have, given that i won't be entitled to collect any of those benefits.

any ideas?

Thanks.

Max

 

[therapy111]

I do not think that you should pay medicare and social secuity for the first five years

 

[hadron]

You don't pay for the first year and a half or so. After that, you have to pay like anyone else (including illegals).

If you return after the end of your J1 to never return, the money is indeed gone. If you return later on (for good), your payments as J1 are credited toward your eligibility for medicare and social security.

Also, the US has treaties with some countries. If your home country has a goverment run retirement system AND has a treaty with the US, you might be able to get payments credited towards your pension back home.

 

[therapy111]

J1 and F1 students do not pay medicare taxes for five years

 

[hadron]

Only J1s who are enrolled as students (e.g. as grad students) are exempt for 5 years. All other categories of J1 for 2 years only.

 

[Lacv75]

Only J1s who are enrolled as students (e.g. as grad students) are exempt for 5 years. All other categories of J1 for 2 years only.

I agree....I was a J1 for 3 years enrolled in Master's program...no Medicare or SS taxes were due...