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I was on H1B visa and worked in us for 3 years and came back to Chennai, India. My employer deducted Social Security and medicare taxes from my pay check. As I understand these taxes are for pension after you retire. I don't understand why I have to pay it as I worked in US for 3 years only and not planning to go there anytime soon. Is there any way to get it back ?.

The Social Security Taxes are not refundable and hence you will not get it back.

IMO Social Security Taxes are not justifiable for temp workers like H1B if they go back for their country for good.

The issue is most of the h1b workers come back after a short break and majority apply for green card ( Permanent residence). It is good for those who want to stay in united states permanently as they will accumulate points towards their retirement. But those who work here for a year or so are the losers as they won't get anything back for their contributions.

It may be good idea to suggest it to the law makers to pass law to refund social security taxes at the age of 65 or so, if you are still not living outside united states and not getting any benefits.. Just fair I think..

Note: If at all somebody want to suggest, beware of law makers who want all h1bs out of country...