But being a US citizen locally or internationally
has great unique experiences and thrilling opportunities. Surprised, many
American expats are still reporting their worldwide income to the IRS year
after year, even after decades of no contact with the United States. Learning
about the US expat tax returns is important to being compliant with the law and
avoiding big penalties.
Why US Expats
Need to File Tax Returns
This means that even if you are living and
working in the UK or anywhere else in the world, you still have to submit a US
tax return annually. Apart from reporting your income, you may be required to
report any foreign bank accounts and possibly disclose foreign assets,
depending on how you apply.
What Makes US
Expat Tax Returns Stand Out?
It can be more challenging to handle US expat tax returns compared with tax
filings within one's home country. Expats can face various hurdles concerning
reporting additional forms and requirements, among which are:
● Foreign Tax
Credit (FTC): if taxes are conducted in the UK or in another country, there is
a relative credit for easing the US tax liability;
●
Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA): specific thresholds are
provided for certain categories of foreign-held financial assets whose values
should also be reported.
This, however, means that even straightforward
financial situations may be complicated once placed into a US tax return.
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US Tax Returns |
Seeking Expert
Help for your Peace of Mind
Many expats in the country find that it helps to
work with a specialized professional tax service provider that handles US tax returns for expats. They have
teams that specialize fully in cross-border expertise to ensure compliance with
US and local laws and to minimize tax through applicable exclusions and
credits.
A firm specializing in expatriate taxation not
only saves time and trouble but also saves the taxpayer from costly mistakes.
Whether he is a salaried employee, self-employed, or someone with multiple
incomes abroad, having a tailored approach can facilitate the process a lot
further.
Tax Deadlines Are
That's Important to Be Considered
Bear in mind that expats get an automatic
two-month extension (to June 15) to file their US tax returns, but any taxes
owed are still due as of April 15.
So, US expat tax returns are just one more stress of living abroad; however, with the right knowledge and help, they do not have to be. Just being compliant gives you peace of mind and protects you from unwanted problems down the road.