Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

Tips for Maintaining Accurate Records as a US Expat

Tips for Maintaining Accurate Records as a US Expat

Living abroad as a US expat comes with awesome “I can’t believe this is my life” experiences. But, it also comes with an increased need for organization when it comes to household administration. Staying on top of necessary administrative tasks, such as maintaining organized records and tracking expenses, can be challenging. Although it can be […]

Understanding the Swiss Pension System as a US Expat – Pillar 1 of 3 

Switzerland Pension Pillars US Expats

Switzerland, aka the Playground of Europe, is a popular destination for American expats. Many find life in Switzerland so enjoyable that they stay, establishing careers and raising families along the way.  As with life anywhere, living in Switzerland comes with some bureaucratic and logistical hurdles – particularly for American citizens and Green Card holders. The […]

Digital Nomad Taxes: Frequently Asked Questions

digital nomad taxes faq hero

Digital nomad taxes are rarely top-of-mind when the travel bug bites, and yet it’s something that all US location-independent workers should be mindful of. Since it was first coined in the early 90s, the phrase “digital nomad” has gone from obscure to commonplace, in large part due to the post-COVID-19 remote work boom.  It makes […]

Selling Gifted Property vs. Selling Inherited Property: A Tax Guide

selling gifted property vs selling inherited property

Selling inherited property or selling a gifted property? Both have significant tax implications, making it important to gather information before you make any formal commitments. The exact way the federal government taxes property sales depends on individual circumstances. Factors like your country of residence, how you came to own the property, and how long you’ve […]

How to Become a Digital Nomad (Updated for 2024)

how to be a digital nomad

Even if you don’t personally know somebody who’s taken the leap and learned how to become a digital nomad, you’ve almost certainly come across #digitalnomadinspo on social media from accounts like Nomadic Matt, My Life’s a Travel Movie, and Emily Eats & Explores. The steady stream of beach selfies, breathtaking landscapes, and mouth-watering meals is […]

ETIAS Visa Waiver for Foreigners Visiting the EU

EU flag. An ETIAS visa waiver will be required by many foreigners, including Americans, who wish to visit the EU and Schengen Zone countries from November 2023 onward

Is it your dream to marvel at Santorini’s whitewashed homes and blue seas, hike in the Swiss Alps, or savor the creamy taste of genuine Florentine gelato? We’re sure it is. But 2025 will bring a key change for Americans seeking a European escape: the ETIAS visa waiver. While American citizens have not previously needed […]

2024 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 2024 unfolds, Bright!Tax is here to simplify the US tax process for you. This guide is your essential companion for the 2023 tax season, packed with all the key dates and insights to navigate your tax responsibilities with […]

2024 Tax Changes: IRS Updates for US Taxpayers Overseas

2024 tax changes

As the 2024 tax year approaches, the IRS has released its end-of-year notice regarding upcoming tax changes. US taxpayers abroad must pay particular attention to these updates, which is where we come in.  Below, we summarize key updates for the 2024 tax year, which will impact your tax filing for the 2025 season. We also […]

Gifting Property To a Foreign Spouse and US Expat Taxes

There are times in life when family members exchange generous gifts with one another, such as during weddings, estate planning, or celebrations of life. However, while the focus may be on the act of giving or receiving foreign property, it is important to be aware of the tax implications that come along with it. These […]

FATCA Enforcement: What US Expats Need to Know 

Foreign financial institutions

For Americans living abroad, US taxes may feel like an “out of sight, out of mind” type of situation. However, the US’s citizen-based taxation system means that all citizens and permanent residents must file a tax return, regardless of where they live. To make matters more complicated, living abroad often triggers additional tax requirements and […]