Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

Taxes as an Expat: 9 Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Female hands holding Asian currency and a foreign passport while preparing taxes as an expat.

Living abroad may change your view, your routine, and your favorite snacks—but not your tax obligations. As long as you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder, the IRS still expects you to file—no matter where in the world you live or work. That includes digital nomads, retirees, self-employed entrepreneurs, and remote employees. The problem? […]

What Is a PFIC? Understanding IRS Rules on Foreign Investments

Just found out about PFICs and feeling a little panicked? You’re not alone. Many U.S. expats with foreign investments don’t realize they own a Passive Foreign Investment Company until they’re knee-deep in tax forms—or worse, facing unexpected tax bills. The IRS classifies many foreign mutual funds, ETFs, and investment funds as PFICs, and unfortunately, they come with some of the most […]

Retire in Ireland: Legal Residency, Tax Rules, and Cost of Living

Stunning aerial view of the Cliffs of Moher, reflecting the natural beauty that draws many to retire in Ireland.

If your idea of retirement involves trading rush-hour traffic for winding country lanes, and your morning soundtrack is less car horns and more fiddles and birdsong, then retirement in Ireland might be calling your name. The Emerald Isle has long enchanted visitors with its rolling green hills, cozy pubs, and warm-hearted locals—and for many Americans, […]

Retire in Puerto Rico: Legal Residency, Tax Rules, and Cost of Living

Aerial view of Buye Beach, showcasing the tropical beauty that draws many to retire in Puerto Rico.

If your idea of retirement paradise includes turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and the ability to order a piña colada without leaving U.S. soil, then retiring in Puerto Rico might be your perfect next chapter. American retirees are flocking to this Caribbean island for more than just the scenery—its year-round tropical climate, vibrant culture, and generous […]

No More IRS Paper Checks: What This Means for Your Tax Refund

RS paper checks like this one are being phased out in favor of digital refund methods.

Say goodbye to that familiar blue-and-white envelope—after decades of mailing out IRS paper checks, the Treasury is pulling the plug. Starting soon, most income tax refunds will arrive via electronic funds transfer (EFT) or other digital payment systems, not the old-fashioned paper check in your mailbox. Why does this matter? For millions of Americans, getting […]

How Pope Leo XIV’s Salary Could Trigger a U.S. Tax Bill

Looking out over Vatican City and Rome, where questions about pope salary meet centuries of tradition.

In a twist the Roman Catholic Church probably didn’t see coming, newly elected Pope Leo XIV may be facing more than just spiritual obligations—he might owe the IRS. According to early reports (and more than a few breaking news segments), the new pontiff has ties to the United States. And as any U.S. expat knows, […]