What is the difference between the taxation of income that is effectively connected with a trade or business in the United States and income that is not effectively connected with a trade or business in the United States?
The difference between these two categories is that effectively connected income, after allowable deductions, is taxed at graduated rates. These are the same rates that apply to U.S. citizens and residents. Income that is not effectively connected is taxed at a flat 30% (or lower treaty) rate. I am a student with an F-1 Visa. I was told that I was an exempt individual. Does this mean I am exempt from paying U.S. tax? The term “exempt individual” does not refer to someone exempt from U.S. tax. You were referred to as an exempt individual because as a student temporarily in the United States on an F Visa, you do not have to count the days you were present in the United States as a student during the first 5 years in determining if you are a resident alien under the substantial presence test. See chapter 1. I am a resident alien. Can I claim any treaty benefits? Generally, you cannot claim tax treaty benefits as a resident alien. However, there are exceptions. See Effect of Tax Treaties i
