Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

How US Expats Can Catch Up on Back Taxes With Form 14653

streamline procedure form14653

While it may not seem fair, all Americans — even those living abroad — who earn above a certain threshold must file a US tax return. If you didn’t previously understand your tax and reporting obligations, though, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you may be able to catch up penalty-free with the help of IRS Form 14653. […]

Filing Form 2555: A Guide for US Expats

Form 2555

Uncle Sam and American expats aren’t exactly the best of friends. Regardless of where they live, American citizens have to declare their worldwide income to the IRS, and many aren’t even aware of this.   Yep, you heard that right. That’s because the United States is one of only two countries that applies citizenship-based taxation.  And […]

FBAR Deadline 2023 – Filing Requirements for US Expats

Tax filing online

Whether you’re a United States expat frantically searching “2023 FBAR deadline” or a seasoned filer staying ahead of the latest FBAR filing requirements, we’re here to answer your FBAR questions.  US expats typically have one or more foreign bank accounts to receive their income and facilitate payment of living expenses. For newcomers to the FBAR […]

Understanding FBAR Penalties

fbar penalties

Becoming an expat can enhance your life in many ways. For many, it may mean you’re no longer beholden to a standard 9 to 5 schedule, and instead free to explore different cities and countries, on your schedule. But, while working remotely offers more flexibility and freedom, it also comes with some important tax reporting […]

What Is a Bona Fide Resident for the FEIE?

Bona Fide Residence Test

While managing their US expat taxes, many expats encounter a crucial question: What is a bona fide resident? For expats filing taxes, the term refers to a qualifying test under a common IRS tax provision that US citizens and Green Card holders can use to offset their US tax liability. This is good news because […]

How to Use IRS Exchange Rates for Your Tax Return

IRS Exchange Rates

Regardless of where they live, American expats have to declare their worldwide income and file their US tax returns each year. That’s because the US is one of the few countries in the world that applies citizenship-based taxation.  However, here’s where things get a bit tricky. Since US expats have to declare their income and […]