Standard deduction for J-1 Researcher

[escherichi]

Hi,

I would greatly appreciate any feedback / comments for following queries.

I am a citizen of India and presently working as Postdoctoral Research Scholar on J-1 visa (Since September 2007). My wife is staying with me as my dependent on J-2 visa. She is not working in U.S.

Can I claim:

1. Standard deduction for myself and my wife ($5400 x 2)?

2. Personal exemption for myself and mywife ($3500 x 2)?


Thanking you.

[dimple2001]

Exemption - YES
Std Deduction - Not sure. F1s file 1040NR and due to treaty with India can claim Std Ded. J1s, not sure.

[escherichi]

Article 21(2) says J-1 students can claim Std deduction and exemption but article 22 do not clearly say that J-1 researcher CAN NOT claim. So, its kind of confusing.