Returning Home

End-Of-Program Questionnaire

Within a week of your departure (before or after), you must visit www.erdtworkandtravel.com and click on the link, “End-Of-Program Questionnaire.” This will help us ensure a good program for future students, and will also inform us of your departure date, which is important for SEVIS and for your future ability to visit the U.S.

Last Paycheck and Security Deposit

It is best if you can get your last paycheck and security deposit before you return home. Many students have difficulty getting their last paycheck and security deposit while in their home country. If this is not possible, you may have your employer mail your last paycheck and security deposit to the ERDT Work and Travel Program at 2601 Ocean Park Blvd., Ste 322, Santa Monica, CA 90405. However, there may be fees for depositing a U.S. check in your home country.

Reconfirming Your Return Flight

You must reconfirm your flight with the airlines in order to get a seat! Call your travel agent or airline at least 10 days before your flight.

Going Home

For many people, readjusting to life in their country is just as complicated as their adjustment to life in the U.S.! When you travel abroad, you feel things to be different, and they are. However, the difficulty readjusting to the familiar surroundings of your home country can come as a surprise. You may go back home expecting everything to be just as you left it. While you were away, two things will have happened:

Cultural awareness and readjustment of perspectives are major benefits of Work & Travel. You will have become accustomed to aspects of U.S. culture and may miss the “special” feeling of living overseas. Those who worked in resort areas will certainly miss the beautiful surroundings and facilities. When you get home, it is a good idea to stay in touch with other Work & Travel participants to keep the memories alive.

Tax Reminder

By Feburary 15, your employer should send you a W2 Form for the previous year, detailing your total wages and the amount of each tax that was withheld. If you have not received your forms by February 15th, contact your employer.

When you receive your W2, you will have to fill out the tax return form 1040NR-EZ. The deadline for filing out a tax return form is April 15th. For more information visit the web site www.irs.gov or contact your local American Embassy or Consulate. As a non-resident, you may not E-File your taxes.

If you are finding it hard to fill out the tax forms then contact TaxBack at www.taxback.com. They will do the work for you and ensure you get any refund you’re entitled to. There is a fee for this service.