This article is for information only and is not tax advice.
This article explains why Sprintax can show that you owe money on your tax return, and what to do next.
What does it mean when Sprintax shows that I owe money?
Sprintax calculates your tax using the IRS and state tax requirements, the applicable tax tables, and the information in your account. You owe money when the tax withheld from your income during the year is less than your total tax.
This is called under-withholding. It is common for nonresident taxpayers.
What can cause under-withholding?
Common causes include the following:
Your employer withheld too little tax. This can happen if your Form W-4 did not follow the special instructions for nonresident aliens.
You had more than one job, and each employer withheld tax as if it was your only job.
You had income with no tax withheld, such as self-employment income.
You cannot claim the standard deduction as a nonresident alien. The exception is students and business apprentices from India under a tax treaty.
What should I check first?
Compare the income and the tax withheld that you entered in Sprintax with your income documents, such as Form W-2, Form 1042-S, and Form 1099. If an amount is wrong, correct it in your Sprintax account.
How do I pay the amount I owe?
Pay the federal amount to the IRS. For your state amount, follow the instructions on your state tax return.
Pay by the tax filing deadline to avoid interest and penalties. For most people who received wages, the deadline is April 15, 2027.