state tax defficiency?

Question

I am a non-resident, who recently received a notice that I have a state income tax deficincy for 2005. The reason for that is the fact that the NJ state tax authorities have not recognized my last paychecks as a proof for the state taxes paid (I didn't have W2`s at the time of applying for return). Moreover, they have notified the IRS and I do have a federal debt connected with this deficincy. However the amount owed to NJ div. of tax. was not offset by the IRS from my federal tax return. I sent to the NJ div. of tax. couple of weeks ago one W2 form and two paychecks (I received W2 from one employer out of three for 2005). They (the NJ div. of tax.)have withheld the full amount from my 2006 state tax return, but I still owe them something like $60-$70. Recently I received a notification that I have won from the green card lottery. I will do everything possible to clear this up, but could it be an obstacle for me to obtain a green card.

Answer 1

I think your question is "could it be an obstacle for me to obtain a green card?"

The answer is no.

"Does a huge IRS debt effect the chances of getting citizenship?"

Citizenship is one of the most coveted gifts that the U.S. government can bestow, and the most important immigration benefit that USCIS can grant. Most people become U.S. citizens in one of two ways:

By birth, either within the territory of the United States or to U.S. citizen parents, or
By Naturalization.

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The general requirements for administrative naturalization include:

a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing;
an ability to read, write, and speak English;
a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
good moral character;
attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,
favorable disposition toward the United States.

Your question is that would your IRS debt effect your status as a "good moral character". As long as you are paying the IRS, you are under good standing with the government. You are not committing any FRAUD (tax return) or doing any Criminal activities. You should get your citizenship on time. It's like paying your credit card bill. They would not go after you unless you do not pay.

Answer 2

My advice is to just pay the 60-70 to NJ to clear it all up. Tax deificiencies could be an obstacle, and since the amount is not that much, the fight would cost more...and NJ tax authorites are notorious for being difficult to deal with!