Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

How to Use IRS Exchange Rates for Your Tax Return

IRS Exchange Rates

All Americans whose income exceeds certain thresholds must file (and potentially pay) United States taxes. Due to the US’s system of citizenship-based taxation, this is true even for American citizens and resident aliens living abroad. But no matter what currency their income is issued in, US expats must report it in US dollars (USD) — […]

US Taxes in the Bahamas: What You Need to Know

Bahamas tax haven

Ahh…The Bahamas. With beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, world-class nightlife and dining, what more could a sun-craving American ask for?  And on top of its gorgeous landscapes and relaxed lifestyle, the Bahamas is an attractive country for many expats due to its low taxes.  This blog post will cover what taxes US expats in the […]

Digital Nomad Taxes: A Complete Guide for US Nomads

US taxes for digital nomads

While life as a digital nomad is an adventure, it’s important to keep practical matters — like digital nomad taxes — in mind, too. Moving to another country as an American doesn’t eliminate your US tax obligations. And if you also qualify as a tax resident in another country, that can significantly impact your finances. […]

Renouncing US Citizenship: A Guide for US Taxpayers Abroad 

Renouncing US Citizenship

It’s common for many Americans living overseas and grappling with annual US tax returns to consider renouncing US citizenship. While factors like taxation often play a significant role in the choice to renounce, many expats also find themselves caught between the obligation to file taxes and the lack of knowledge to navigate the system effectively.  […]

How Accidental Americans Can Avoid Double Taxation

Accidental American? Learn how to avoid double taxation and penalties

Every year, people around the world feel shocked to discover that the US considers them to be tax residents. Regardless of how long it’s been since they lived in the US — or sometimes, whether they’ve lived there at all — these “accidental Americans” still have US tax and reporting obligations. And if they’re a […]

The Foreign Housing Exclusion: A Guide for US Expats

If you’re a US expat looking to reduce your tax bill, it’s well worth looking into the Foreign Housing Exclusion (FHE). While it may not be as well-known as some of the other expat tax breaks, the FHE is a valuable tool to have at your disposal. Claiming the exclusion can help you offset foreign […]

How to File Taxes for Self-Employed Expats: The Essentials

US expat researches how to report foreign self employment income.

Globally-minded US entrepreneurs, location-independent contractors overseas, and freelancers abroad are trailblazers with unique tax needs: To understand how to file taxes for self-employed expats. Before any self-employment taxes (sometimes referred to as “SE tax“) are filed though, you’ll want to ensure that your global US tax strategy is maximum efficient. To accomplish this, you’ll need […]

How to Move Abroad From the US: An Unofficial Roadmap

Digital nomad with a map

Wondering how to move abroad from the United States? You’re not alone. Whether you call it wanderlust, itchy feet, or travel fever, many people feel a calling to embark on adventures overseas.  An estimated 5.4 million Americans live overseas, with more and more making the move every day. And with many countries having a lower […]