Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

FBAR Late-Filing Penalties: What Happens, How to File & More

2023 FBAR Penalties US Expats

FBAR late-filing penalties can quickly accumulate when you’re a US expat. Officially known as the Foreign Bank Account Report, this administrative form is a common source of frustration for US expats for numerous reasons. Firstly, it’s often difficult to find detailed but digestible information on the topic, including whether or not you need to file […]

How to File Foreign Tax Credit Form 1116

laptop irs form 116 expat

Since the nineteenth century, the US has required all American citizens to file a US tax return, reporting their worldwide income, even if they live abroad. This leaves American expats around the world exposed to the possibility of double taxation, having to file taxes both to the US and in the country where they live. […]

How to Celebrate 4th of July Abroad in 2021

How to Celebrate 4th of July Abroad in 2021

While in much of the States life has returned to normal, in many other countries it hasn’t yet, meaning celebrating the 4th of July in 2021 for Americans expats may require imagination and improvisation for a second year running. Being resourceful comes with the territory for expats though, and wherever you are there’s bound to […]

Calev Isaacson Awarded Bright!Tax Global Scholar Award

Calev Isaacson Awarded Bright!Tax Global Scholar Award

The Bright!Tax Awards Committee is proud to announce that Calev Isaacson is the latest recipient of the Global Scholar Award. The Awards Committee found Calev’s story and ambitions inspirational. He grew up in Arizona, where his father’s family had emigrated to from war-torn Europe in the 1940s. His mother’s family meanwhile were originally Mexican. Calev […]

Best Countries for Expats to Retire Overseas in 2021

Best Countries for Expats to Retire Overseas in 2021

Retirement abroad is more popular than ever, as the world has become more connected online, making managing finances and keeping in touch with family and friends from abroad easier. The desire to travel meanwhile has been amplified by the pandemic. The top considerations when considering where to retire overseas are cost of living, healthcare, quality […]

Self-Employment Tax Deductions and Credits for US Expats

US small business owner sits at a table in a kitchen claiming her self employment tax deductions.

When you embark on the adventure of living abroad, you open yourself up to exciting experiences, diverse cultures, and tantalizing cuisines. However, if you’ve decided to pursue a side gig or fully embrace self-employment during your overseas journey, navigating your tax obligations becomes a bit more intricate. As a self-employed expat, understanding your income, tax […]