University Compliance

The Yale Tax Office does not assist with your annual personal income tax filing. The overall mission of the University Tax Compliance and Planning Office is to promote the University’s compliance with Federal and State tax laws and to act as a resource for the University community with respect to tax issues. The University Tax Compliance and Planning Office is comprised of the Tax Office and the International Tax Office. 

Meet with Yale’s International Tax Office

If you will receive payment from Yale, including stipends, fellowships, wages, et cetera, it is important to meet with the Yale University International Tax Office before receiving the first paycheck. International students, scholars, or department administrators on behalf of a student or scholar, can go on to the International Tax Office website to schedule an appointment.

At your meeting, the International Tax Office will:

  • Review your tax status
  • Advise international students and scholars on determining proper tax withholding including whether or not you are eligible to claim a reduced income tax withholding rate because of a tax treaty and/or an exemption from FICA (Social Security) withholding
  • Provide guidance with completing the necessary forms. A reduced rate of federal income tax withholding (including full exemption) pursuant to a tax treaty is only effective if the treaty is applicable and the necessary paperwork is completed, signed and approved by the International Tax Office. The reduced withholding rate will apply only to payments made after the necessary paperwork has been completed and signed by the individual, approved by the University tax department and filed with the IRS.
  • Provide advice to the University community regarding international tax withholding and reporting requirements on payments made to the University’s growing population of international students and scholars through ongoing training sessions, communications, an interactive web tool, etc.
  • Establish and monitor controls regarding tax withholding and reporting as a result of treaty expiration, residency status, et cetera. As a result, the International Tax Office will periodically send you forms for you to complete.