Legal assistance
If you think you need legal services, first check with the ISSS office, and also check the website of the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services. If your questions or needs go beyond our area of expertise, we may be able to provide referrals.
If you decide to seek out legal or tax counsel, contact the office and briefly explain your problem. You may want to ask:
“Do you have experience in my type of problem?” If you are seeking tax assistance, does the accountant or CPA have knowledge of tax treaties, or understand the forms you need to submit? If you need legal advice, does the lawyer have experience with the category of visa or immigrant status you are seeking? If you have any kind of criminal charge, does the lawyer understand the immigration consequences of particular criminal charges or plea bargains?
“Do you charge a flat rate or an hourly fee for this type of work? Can you give me an estimate of the cost?”
“Can you estimate the amount of time it will take?”
Questions to ask yourself:
Is this person clear and easy to understand? Will he or she keep me updated about my case?
Do the charges seem comparable to other professionals doing the same work?
Do I feel satisfied that this person will be a good lawyer or accountant for me? (If you do not, don’t hire that person. Look for other options.)
Guides
Individual Identification Taxpayer Number–see “Taxes”
How to apply for a Social Security number
Tax overview (2020)
Help! What tax forms do I need to fill out?
Tax Form 8843 Instructions (2020)