H4 EAD vs F1-OPT for spouse

[mmprabhu]

Hi,
I am working on a H1B visa and my wife is working on F1-OPT. My wife saves on FICA/Medicare.

If she coverts to H4 EAD, what would the tax implications be? Would she have to pay FICA/Medicare then?

Any benefits of having her convert to H4 EAD now? Her employer will apply for H1B next year. Should she remain on F1-OPT?

Thanks.

[inadmissible]

How do you guys plan to file your United States taxes, as Married Filing Jointly?
When does her OPT expire?

[mmprabhu]

We are still not sure how we have to file taxes. I believe it's better if we file separately. I can check with the tax consultant regarding this.

Her OPT is valid till mid 2017 since it started in Jan 2015. So, 12 months of OPT plus 17 month extension from then. However, her company will apply for H1B next year.

Thanks.