These 11 strategies can help you legally minimize your US tax liability, take advantage of foreign tax credits, and make the most of available deductions and exclusions.
11 Tax Optimization Strategies for High-Income Expats
08/16/2024
How to File an Extension for the June 15 Tax Deadline
07/16/2024
Americans who earn above a certain threshold — even those living abroad — must file a federal tax return each year. While Americans living within the US must file their return by April 15th, US expats have a June 15 tax deadline. Fortunately, those who need extra time can request an extension. While the time […]
When Do Expats Need a Tax Preparer? 9 Common Scenarios
06/13/2024
This year, almost three-quarters of Americans said they planned to file their own taxes — either manually or with the help of tax preparation software. In some cases, this makes sense. If all of your income is W-2 income, you hold minimal assets, and you don’t mind putting in the effort, filing on your own […]
Should I Do My Own Taxes? 5 Reasons to Hire an Expat Tax Professional
03/19/2025
When tax season rolls around, many expats find themselves wondering: Should I do my own taxes? While it is possible to do taxes by yourself or with the help of tax preparation software, it’s not exactly ideal. The US tax code contains many complexities as is. Factor in expat status, and it gets all the […]
The Real Cost of Hiring a Tax Professional: What Every Expat Needs to Know
03/19/2025
I can do my own taxes; why would I pay someone to do them for me? Have you ever said this but then regretted it? Don’t worry, we get it. People start out thinking — how hard can it actually be — then end up tangled in forms, calculations, and deadlines, horrified they might have […]
Understanding FBAR Filing: Should You Include Online Banks?
04/10/2024
As a digitally savvy expat, you likely have some experience with money service providers and payment systems like Wise, PayPal, and others. And it’s all fun and games until it’s time to file your FBAR (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts), the annual disclosure of your foreign financial accounts held outside the US. Generating […]
Beckham Law in Spain: How U.S. Expats Can Save Thousands on Taxes
05/12/2025
If you’re a U.S. expat eyeing Spain’s sunshine and sangria—but not its steep tax rates—the Beckham Law might be your golden ticket. Named after football legend David Beckham (who famously took advantage of it when he signed with Real Madrid), this special tax regime was introduced in 2005 to attract foreign workers and professional athletes […]
Moving Abroad: Should I Rent or Sell My House as an Expat?
04/30/2025
It’s one of the most common questions among soon-to-be US expats: If I’m moving abroad, should I sell or rent my house? Selling your house outright can take a load off your mind, but renting it out allows for a stream of steady rental income. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your situation: […]
The US-UK Pension Tax Treaty Provision Taxpayers Need to Know About
03/06/2025
Navigating the tax implications of retirement savings across borders can be a daunting task. Whether you’re an American expat who has worked in the UK or you’ve moved to the US after building up a workplace pension in the UK, understanding the tax laws of both countries is crucial for optimizing your retirement strategy. At […]
Maximizing Returns: How Bright!Tax Helped John Save Thousands on His Taxes
10/30/2024
John, an American entrepreneur, saw Portugal not just as a scenic backdrop but as a land of opportunity for his business ventures. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to delve deep into the intricacies of US taxation for expatriates, a realm fraught with complexities and potential pitfalls. While he was adept at managing the operational aspects […]