If you're filing Form 1040-NR (non-resident alien), use Sprintax. TurboTax does not support 1040-NR filing.
The short answer
If you're filing Form 1040-NR (non-resident alien), use Sprintax. TurboTax does not support 1040-NR filing.
If you've passed the Substantial Presence Test and file as a resident (Form 1040), TurboTax, FreeTaxUSA, or H&R; Block all work.
Sprintax pricing (2026)
| Form | Cost |
|---|---|
| Federal 1040-NR | $51.95 |
| State tax return | $44.95 per state |
| FBAR (FinCEN 114) | $14.99 |
| Total (federal + 1 state + FBAR) | ~$112 |
TurboTax pricing (2026)
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| Tier | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free Edition | $0 (very limited) |
| Deluxe | $69 federal + $64/state |
| Premier | $99 federal + $64/state |
Feature comparison
| Sprintax | TurboTax | |
|---|---|---|
| 1040-NR support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 1040 support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| FBAR filing | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| F1 OPT tax returns | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Foreign tax credit (Form 1116) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| ITIN application help | ✅ Yes | Limited |
| India-specific guidance | ✅ Yes | No |
| Live CPA access | $169/session | $89-$199 |
When to use each
Use Sprintax if:
- You arrived in the US less than 3 years ago
- You're on F1 OPT transitioning to H1B
- You have Indian bank accounts above $10K (need FBAR)
- You have Indian FD interest or rental income
Use TurboTax (or FreeTaxUSA) if:
- You've been in the US 3+ years and pass the SPT
- You file Form 1040 (resident)
- You want the cheapest option (FreeTaxUSA charges $0 federal)
The $4,000 mistake
H1B holders who use TurboTax in years 1-2 often file the wrong form AND miss the FICA exemption. F1/J1 visa holders are exempt from FICA (Social Security + Medicare taxes = 7.65% of income). If you were on F1/OPT and your employer still withheld FICA, Sprintax helps you file Form 843 to reclaim it.
Average FICA refund for F1 OPT year: $3,500 – $5,000.
Watch the full tax mistakes video →
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