Hi all,

I have a payroll question. I am currently on a J-1 visa as a research scientist in Michigan. The payroll dept. started deducting the FICA tax from my montly wage. I mentioned tothem that my visa is for 1-year (can be extended to 2), but they said since I have been in MI before (while doing my PhD for two years and while doing my MS for two years) that I have to pay FICA tax.
Is this CORRECT? That I have to pay FICA, although that I did not live in MI for 5 consecutive years (I did in three separate occasions that add up to 5 years)?

Your feedback is appreicated.

Thanks,