Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

From Tim Tams to Tall Poppies: Australian Culture for U.S. Newcomers

Life in Australia

Drawn by the beaches, the laid-back lifestyle, or a new professional opportunity, adapting to life Down Under means more than just swapping dollars for dollars and learning to love Vegemite. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of Australian culture, from social dynamics and humor to workplace etiquette and regional quirks—so you can […]

How Australia’s Corporate Tax Rate Affects U.S. Expats and Entrepreneurs

Taking care of your taxes and financial strategy in Australia

If you’re a U.S. expat or entrepreneur considering business opportunities Down Under, understanding how Australia’s corporate tax rate impacts your bottom line is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the key tax rules, highlight practical strategies, and help you make informed decisions for your cross-border business success. Understanding Australia’s corporate tax rate structure and […]

Trump’s Income Tax Plan: Will You Pay More or Less?

A picture of the White House, symbolizing the Trump income tax plan and U.S. fiscal policy.

Trump is back in the White House—and taxes are back on the table. With his re-election in 2024, President Donald Trump has reignited one of the biggest financial debates in America: what happens next to your federal income taxes. At the heart of it? The Trump tax cuts of 2017, many of which are set […]

Selling Property? Understand Canada’s Capital Gains Tax

Investment jar with coins and a growing tree, representing long-term business and wealth management strategies.

Selling property in Canada comes with its own set of tax rules—and capital gains tax is one you don’t want to overlook. For U.S. expats, understanding how gains from a Canadian home sale are taxed can save you from expensive surprises down the road. Here’s what to know about Canadian capital gains tax, recent rule […]

Australian Laws Every American Expat Should Know Before Moving

Life in Australia

Understanding Australian laws is essential for a smooth transition, especially for American expats who want to avoid surprises and settle in with confidence. From taxes to tenancy, this guide breaks down the most important legal considerations, offering practical advice and real-world examples to help you thrive Down Under. Tax obligations for U.S. expats living in […]

The IRS Streamline Procedures: How to Fix Missed Foreign Filings

Foreign currency spread across a world map, representing global income and the IRS streamline procedures for reporting missed foreign assets.

So, you’ve just discovered you were supposed to file a Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR), maybe a Form 8938, and include that income from your old investment in the Cayman Islands. Whoops. Deep breaths—you’re not the first (and definitely not the last) U.S. taxpayer to miss the fine print on international tax reporting. That’s where […]