Utility Cost Estimates

Utility costs can vary drastically depending on personal use and preferences. Teachers should expect the following costs when selecting living arrangements:

• Energy: $80 – $140
• Water: $20 – $40
• Cable/Streaming Services: $10 – $80
• Internet: $50 – $100
• Phone: $100 – $150

Childcare Cost Estimates

Childcare is usually needed when children are under school age. Childcare in the US can be as expensive as $200 – $1,000 per week depending on the age, amount of time childcare is needed, the number of children, and other factors. Please contact childcare providers in your school district’s area to determine the cost if childcare is needed.

Work-Related Deductions Estimates

Salary in the United States of America is subject to Federal Income taxes and withholding (10% – 22%), State Income taxes and withholdings (0%-10%), and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) Deductions. FICA comprises Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) taxes. Based on your country of citizenship, you may be eligible for certain tax treaty benefits. Additionally, J-1 visa teachers may be eligible for a two calendar year exemption from FICA taxes. Please see a tax professional for details.

Snydex Recruiting Program Participants are not required to contribute to retirement benefits or union dues. However, It is important to fully understand a school district’s contribution requirements and an international teacher’s ability to access these funds following the exchange visitor program before making any enrollment decision. Depending on the state, enrolling in retirement benefits may require a monthly contribution of 3% to 9% of your paycheck. Union dues may range from $200 per year to over $1200 per year, depending on the state and several other factors. If you wish to participate in a union, please contact the specific union in that state to determine the exact costs.

Miscellaneous Cost Estimates (Optional)

Teachers should expect to budget part of their salary for miscellaneous costs. These costs differ depending on the individual and the activities they wish to pursue. Examples of miscellaneous costs include:

• Entertainment and Hobbies
• School Supplies and Equipment
• Clothing and Grooming
• Savings

Potential Costs for Program Members

Applicants to the Snydex Recruiting Program may incur some personal costs related to their collection of documents necessary to prove eligibility for a J-1 visa, including credential evaluations ($150-$260), criminal background check (estimated $20-$150, but varies based on country of origin), visa application fee (currently $185), and proficiency tests related to certification (currently $90-$200). Program participants will be charged a $300 non-refundable paperwork processing fee for J-2 dependents. J-2 dependents that attend orientation will need to pay for food and lodging which can range from $260 to $1,015 depending on the number of J-2 dependents. Program participants who are interested in and apply for an extension of their program are responsible for paying the $367 extension fee.

All Fees Paid by Snydex Recruiting

1 – Sponsor Fees
Snydex Recruiting does not charge teachers a fee to sponsor their visas.
2 – Placement Fees
Snydex Recruiting does not charge teachers a fee to interview for or secure positions in the US.
3 – Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fees
Snydex Recruiting pays the $220 I-901 SEVIS Fee for J visa applications.
4 – State Licensure or Certification Fees
State Teaching Licensure fees vary by state. Amounts range from $75 to $105. Snydex Recruiting pays the licensure fee for teachers. In the unlikely event a teacher is required to take licensing examinations, the teacher will be responsible for that cost. Costs range from $63 to $150.
5 – Foreign or Domestic Third Party or Partner Fees
There is no fee to our teacher applicants to work with one of our foreign or domestic partners. Our partners will never charge you a fee. If asked to pay a fee, please end your communication and immediately contact Snydex Recruiting to verify whether a third party is an official Snydex Recruiting partner.