United States Life

ATM Machine

Banking

In most university cities, local banks offer specific student packages that include an ATM banking card and free checks. Some banks will offer students a credit card with a pre-approved maximum credit limit of up to $500. A credit card should only be used in cases of emergencies and you should make sure that the ATM banking card you receive also functions as a Visa/Mastercard debit card. Make sure that the bank shows you how to use the checkbook properly.

When choosing a local bank, make sure that the bank has some experience with international banking in order to ensure that your money transfers from overseas will be received without unnecessary delays.

Taxes

Taxes

Virtually every international student residing in the U.S. is subject to U.S. federal (and possibly state) income tax filing requirements. In most instances, the filing is informational only, with no tax due. Failure to properly comply with these requirements can have serious implications, especially for those individuals with significant income from their home countries. Proper filing can document the exemption of such non-U.S. source income from U.S. tax. Additionally, failure to file required tax returns may jeopardize possible subsequent application for a temporary H-1 work permit or permanent residence or "green card" status. The foreign-related aspects of U.S. taxation are a very specialized area of expertise, and even many so-called "tax preparers" in the U.S. are not qualified to competently deal with such issues.
United States Flag

United States Holidays

  • New Year's Day - January 1
  • Martlin Luther King Day - 3rd. Monday in January , Birthday of Martin LutherKing Jr. a leader in the Civil Rights movement.
  • President's Day - 3rd. Monday in February , Celebrate the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
  • Memorial Day - Last Monday in May , Honor individuals in the US Armed Forces who gave their lives for the United States.
  • United State's Independence Day - July 4
  • Labor Day - 1st. Monday in September , Honor the workers. Considered the last day of summer.
  • Columbus Day - 2nd. Monday in October
  • Veteran's Day - November 11 , Honoring retired members of the US Armed Forces.
  • Thanksgiving - 4th. Thursday in November
  • Christmas - December 25 , Honoring the birth of Jesus Christ.
Election Day is also the Tuesday on or after November 2. (Some local elections are also held on other days).