U.S. Expat Taxes Made Simple
If you’re a U.S. expat or planning to move abroad, navigating the complex world of U.S. tax requirements can be overwhelming. The rules change frequently, penalties are severe, and mistakes can cost thousands. Expatriate taxation is a highly specialized area that requires a CPA firm with extensive experience in handling it. Our team has guided U.S. citizens, Green Card holders, and their families through this unique process for many years.
Avoid Costly Mistakes with Experienced Guidance
Expatriate taxation is highly specialized, and the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act now requires over 110 countries to report financial accounts held by U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to the IRS.
The rules change frequently and can be counter-intuitive. Just a simple oversight can cost a taxpayer $10,000 or more. It’s crucial to work with a CPA firm that specializes in expatriate taxation rather than one who handles only a handful of cases each year.
Compliance Obligations for U.S. Expatriates
Income Tax Filings
These issues can be complex and have major ramifications. Incorrectly handling overseas retirement accounts, residency status, the number of days outside the U.S., and foreign tax credits against U.S. tax can easily cost a taxpayer tens of thousands of dollars.
Foreign Bank Account Reporting (FBAR)
Bank and/or investment accounts (including many retirement accounts) where a person has signatory authority must be reported if they total over $10,000 at any time in the year. Penalties are severe but voluntary filings can help minimize risks.
Foreign Financial Asset Reporting (FATCA)
Additional reporting is required if foreign bank and investment accounts exceed certain thresholds. Penalties are severe, but compliance is crucial to avoid major financial implications.
Foreign Business Ownership Reporting
U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must report ownership in foreign trust and more than 10% ownership in non-U.S. businesses. Non-compliance can result in penalties up to $100,000 per failure.
Why Choose Smith Patrick for Your Expat Tax Needs?
Serving clients locally, nationally, and internationally, Smith Patrick CPAs is dedicated to providing expertise and guidance to expatriates every step of the way.
Extensive Expertise
We’ve helped clients in over 80 countries. Our award-winning team has years of hands-on experience working with expats, so you don’t have to navigate tricky forms and changing rules alone.
Complete Compliance
From Form 1116 for the Foreign Tax Credit to FBAR and FATCA requirements, we make sure you’re fully compliant and avoid costly penalties.
Tailored Solutions
Whether you’re already settled abroad, planning your first move, or need help with multi-year filings, we know how to make this process straightforward.
What Our Clients Say
Our Process: Bringing Peace of Mind to Expats Everywhere
Consultation
We begin with a conversation to understand your unique tax situation, covering residency, income sources, and asset details.
Review & Compliance
We’ll ensure all forms are filed correctly, including FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) and Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (Form 2555).
Planning Ahead
Tax planning isn’t just about compliance—we’ll help you optimize your tax position while you’re abroad to keep your liabilities in check.
Don’t Leave Your Expat Taxes to Chance
Tax mistakes can cost tens of thousands of dollars and even result in passport denial or severe penalties. At Smith Patrick CPAs, we make sure your expatriate tax obligations are met—accurately and on time.
With years of successful multi-year filings and experience with clients worldwide, we’re your trusted partner for expatriate tax matters.
Ready to Simplify Your Expat Taxes?
Call us today to get started and put an experienced team in your corner. An oversight in expatriate taxes can cost thousands—let us help you avoid costly mistakes.