Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

US Expat Taxes 2024: 12 Tips from the Best Expat Tax Service

Woman living overseas successfully files taxes for expats by partnering with Bright!Tax.

Taxes for expats tend to be complicated, especially for US expats.  If you’re a US citizen living abroad with questions about what the expat tax filing requirements are, you’re not alone. Some expats aren’t even aware they need to continue filing US tax returns while living overseas.  Expatriate tax is a complicated realm for Americans […]

FBAR Filing 2024: Clarifying FinCen Form 114 for Expats

US global taxpayer does his FBAR filing at a laptop in a cafe.

The Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) is filed using FinCen Form 114, though much about this US reporting requirement is misunderstood. In the following article, we dive into the essential elements of FinCEN Form 114, providing key background information, and detailing who must file and deadlines in 2024. Ensuring adherence to these regulations is key […]

Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures (for Expat Amnesty)

US expat makes power pose after successfully catching up on taxes by partnering with Bright!Tax to complete the Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures

The Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures (SLP) provides a light at the end of the tunnel for qualifying global US taxpayers seeking IRS amnesty from late-filing US tax penalties. As a US citizen or permanent resident living overseas, getting a handle on your tax responsibilities is essential. The program offers a streamlined process for expats to […]

FATCA – Everything Expats Need to Know

FATCA Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act Guide for US Expats

If you’re a US expat living abroad, you’ve likely heard FATCA used as a bad word. And to be frank, it can quite literally ruin someone’s day – it significantly complicates US taxpayers’ day-to-day life abroad.  Some context: The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), is a law passed by US Congress in 2010 to […]

Retire in Costa Rica: Visas, Healthcare, Taxes, & More

Sunset in Costa Rica

Americans looking to move to a beautiful, safe, and relatively affordable country in their golden years may want to retire in Costa Rica. Whether you want to relax, go on adventures, or indulge in a bit of both, Costa Rica’s got you covered. And with a dedicated retirement visa, moving there is much more attainable […]

Your Complete Guide to Budgeting as a Digital Nomad

Digital nomad in Paris

Budgeting as a digital nomad can be tricky, but it’s essential. Travel expenses can add up quickly, and you don’t want to run out of funds in a foreign country. That said, it’s definitely possible to travel — even for an indefinite amount of time — without breaking the bank. Below, we’ll go over everything you […]

Best Countries to Teach English & Save Money as a US Expat

Teaching English abroad

Exploring the best countries to teach English and save money? You’ve come to the right place to learn about the top locations around the world for those looking to travel, make money, and pursue a rewarding career. With quite a few countries offering high salaries, low taxes, a low cost of living, and sometimes even […]

Italy Digital Nomad Visa: Your (Updated!) 2024 Guide

Italy digital nomad visa

Italy’s digital nomad visa has had buzz around it ever since the government first announced plans to offer one in March 2022. Between the country’s fascinating history, beautiful vistas, and incredible cuisine, it’s no wonder Italy is the fifth most-visited country in the world. For a long time, however, would-be applicants were in the dark […]

Understanding FBAR Filing: Should You Include Online Banks?

money in foreign online bank accounts

As a digitally savvy expat, you likely have some experience with money service providers and payment systems like Wise, PayPal, and others. And it’s all fun and games until it’s time to file your FBAR (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts), the annual disclosure of your foreign financial accounts held outside the US. Generating […]

Beckham Law in Spain & How It Affects US Expats

Beckham law for expats in Spain

For Americans considering or planning a move to Spain, reading up on the Beckham Law is a must. This special tax regime can offer significant tax cuts on Spanish-sourced income and exclude most worldwide income from Spanish taxation. Altogether, this can result in major savings on your tax bill. But who exactly qualifies for Beckham […]

Panama or Costa Rica: US Expat Property Buying Guide

Panama or Costa Rica property guide

Which country is better for investing in real estate, Panama or Costa Rica? Americans looking to move abroad while staying within the North American continent are increasingly asking this question. Both Latin American countries offer tropical climates, unspoiled nature, and vibrant expat communities. Of course, the two countries differ in some key ways—these differences are […]

5 Superb Low-Tax Countries for US Expats

houses at a beach

If you’re an American looking to move abroad, it makes sense that you would be interested in setting up in the lowest tax countries for expats. After all, the United States extends its definition of tax residency to all citizens and permanent residents. You won’t want to add too much tax liability on top of […]

Spain Golden Visa Program: What You Need to Know

Beach in Spain golden visa program

If you want to move to a country with a rich culture, an affordable cost of living, and beautiful vistas, you may want to look into Spain’s golden visa. For those with capital to invest, the Spanish golden visa offers the aforementioned benefits and many more. Of course, before deciding whether or not you want […]