Tax Rules and Compliance

Understanding FBAR Filing: Should You Include Online Banks?

money in foreign online bank accounts

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 […]

What are Marginal Tax Rates? (With Examples for Expats)

Expat woman on her laptop researches a common question, "What are marginal tax rates?"

“What are marginal tax rates?” This query introduces a fundamental yet often misunderstood element of global tax systems.  Marginal tax rates, require a nuanced understanding to fully appreciate their impact on individual fiscal responsibilities.  In the following article, we will define marginal tax rates, introduce strategies to potentially reduce your marginal tax rate, and offer […]

5 Reasons to Maintain a US Address while Living Abroad

US mailbox

Although maintaining a US address may not be a priority when moving overseas, understanding how to do so is beneficial. Despite varying circumstances, having a US mailbox while living abroad can often prevent future logistical issues. But what exactly are the benefits of maintaining a US mailing address, and how can you do so? We’ll […]

How to Change State Residency for Taxes [Expat Strategies]

US expat plays chess, a visual analogy of the strategy necessary behind changing state residency when living abroad.

Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but certain details, like determining and possibly changing your state residency for tax purposes, can be less exhilarating.   Even if aspects like these aren’t terribly exciting, though, they are important. Your state residency can have major tax implications, so it’s worth taking the time to read up on […]

The Cost to Renounce US Citizenship for US Expats

Two men discuss renouncing US citizenship in an office high-rise

It’s not uncommon for US citizenship to pose difficulties for US citizens living abroad, particularly when they’ve lived abroad long term. While US citizenship grants certain privileges, such as the right to vote in federal elections and a US passport, it also carries with it certain burdensome obligations.  Among the most pressing concerns for Americans […]

Selling Gifted Property vs. Selling Inherited Property

selling gifted property vs selling inherited property

Whether you’re selling inherited property or selling a gifted property, it’s important to understand the tax implications of the sale. While taxation works differently from one scenario to another, both can incur significant taxes. As a result, it’s best to do some research before making any formal commitments. This is especially true for expats, who […]

2025 US Expat Tax Deadlines and Tips for Americans Abroad

As an American expat, balancing your adventurous life with the practicalities of tax season is crucial. As 2025 unfolds, Bright!Tax is here to simplify the US tax process for you. This guide is your essential companion for the 2024 tax season, packed with all the key dates and insights to navigate your tax responsibilities with […]