US Tax News

Expat Tax Information

All American citizens and green card holders who earn over $12,000 (or just $400 of self-employment income are required to file a US tax return every year, reporting their worldwide income, wherever in the world they live.

Tax Filing for US Expats

Bright!Tax is the recognized leader in US tax preparation for Americans living abroad. We take the hassle out of staying compliant, while you enjoy the incredible adventure of being an expat.

Where is Your Tax Home?

Where is Your Tax Home? A Guide for Expats

The US requires all American Citizens to file US taxes, reporting their global income, wherever in the world they live or receive income. Because many American expats have to file foreign taxes in another country too, the IRS has introduced some provisions that expats can claim when they file to avoid double taxation. The two […]

Taxes on Unearned Income: Rules for US Expats

Man holding a phone while sitting in front of a computer

When most people think about income taxes, they think of the taxes automatically withheld from their paycheck — or, if they’re self-employed, the quarterly tax estimates they pay. But, what about taxes on unearned income? Unearned income — also known as passive income — refers to the income you don’t actively work for. This can […]

Foreign Rental Property Depreciation: A Guide for US Expats

You may already know that Americans who own rental property in the United States can claim depreciation to reduce their tax liability. What you may not realize, though, is that US expats can also claim depreciation on rental property based abroad. While foreign rental property depreciation has some unique nuances, we’re here to walk you […]

Foreign Source or US Source Income – A Guide for Expats

Foreign Source or US Source Income - A Guide for Expats

American expats have to differentiate between US and foreign source income when they file their US taxes. All Americans, including Americans living abroad, have to file US taxes, due to the fact that the US taxes based on citizenship. American expats also have to report their foreign registered businesses, and financial (i.e. bank and investment) accounts and […]

Foreign Investment Tax & Reporting: a Guide for US Expats

Taxation of foreign investments for expats

Many Americans living abroad get the opportunity to acquire foreign investments at some point in their fiscal journey. While investing in financial vehicles outside of the US can play an important role in diversifying your portfolio and aligning your investment strategy to the economy of your host country, it’s important to understand how foreign holdings […]

The Best Tax Software for US Expats

The Best Tax Software for US Expats

The majority of Americans use tax software to file their US taxes. In the light of this, it’s strange that the IRS has been changing Form 1040 over the last couple of years, as very few people use it. Instead, the majority either employ a tax preparer, who uses software, or input their information into […]

Year-End Tax Planning Strategies for US Expats in 2019

Year-End Tax Planning Strategies for US Expats in 2019

As we approach the end of year holidays, it’s a good time for expats to take stock and do some year-end tax planning. Year-end tax planning for expats falls into two broad categories: minimizing year 2019 taxes, and planning ahead for 2020. Minimizing year 2019 taxes Ensure that you qualify for the Foreign Earned Income […]