03/01/2025
If you’re a US citizen or permanent resident who has moved abroad, you might think that you’re off the hook for state taxes — but if you most recently lived in Virginia, you may very well still be subject to an annual Virginia tax obligation. It may not seem fair, but Virginia is one of […]
01/11/2024
As we reflect on the close of 2023, it’s with immense gratitude and a sense of fulfillment that we at Bright!Tax share an exciting update for our ongoing philanthropic endeavor – Bright!Lights. Nestled in the heart of our vibrant global community, Argentina holds a special place as one of our main hubs. With a significant […]
04/29/2024
While parts of Western Europe are starting to bristle with increased costs of living, low-cost European countries abound if you’re willing to step off the beaten path. Rest assured, these more affordable countries maintain the European standard of living that most expats hunger for, including rich cultures to discover and excellent public transportation. You just […]
02/24/2025
Two of the most common additional US tax forms expats have to file are the FBAR and Form 8938 — but what is the difference between FBAR vs. 8938? While foreign assets are reported on both of these forms, they differ in terms of asset type and reporting thresholds. It’s important to understand the differences […]
12/21/2023
“What are marginal tax rates?” This query introduces a fundamental yet often misunderstood element of global tax systems. Marginal tax rates, require a nuanced understanding to fully appreciate their impact on individual fiscal responsibilities. In the following article, we will define marginal tax rates, introduce strategies to potentially reduce your marginal tax rate, and offer […]
12/20/2024
At Bright!Tax, we pride ourselves on our commitment to both our clients and our team. We’re dedicated to expertly managing US taxes for Americans abroad. We are also equally committed to the well-being of our team. Our journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep understanding of the complexities of international […]
02/06/2024
If you’re exploring different possibilities for immigration, you might have noticed that many visa options require a job offer in a host country. This may represent an obstacle if you’re not looking for a job but would still like to secure a second passport or relocate abroad to enjoy a better quality of life. We […]
02/04/2025
If you’ve ever wondered how to move to Japan from the US, consider this a sign. Renowned for its high quality of life, natural beauty, and relatively low cost of living, Japan has long captivated the attention of Americans. The delicious sushi and ramen, stunning temples and shrines, and breathtaking cherry blossoms and bamboo groves […]
11/11/2023
With remote work, the gig economy, and digital nomadism disrupting the traditional employment model, a crucial question arises: What’s the difference between an independent contractor and an employee? Virtually all Americans have heard of these terms, and most have an idea of what they mean, but not everyone is aware of the important distinctions between […]
03/19/2025
Although maintaining a US address may not be a priority when moving overseas, understanding how to do so is beneficial. Despite varying circumstances, having a US mailbox while living abroad can often prevent future logistical issues. But what exactly are the benefits of maintaining a US mailing address, and how can you do so? We’ll […]