FAQ

1 What is an FBAR?

What is an Fbar?

An Fbar is a report sent directly to the department of Treasure that reports foreign bank account balances. If you had more than 10,000 USD worth of foreign currency in one, or across multiple foreign bank accounts, you need to file an Fbar.

2 When are expat taxes due?

When are taxes due?

Taxes are due in mid-April each year, but those who filers who are outside of the US and its territories on April 15th, get an extension until June 15. It is generally understood that expat taxes are due in June, but if you owe taxes, those payments are due in April, and interest will start to occur after the standard April deadline.

3 Who needs to file taxes?

Who needs to file taxes?

All Americans, green card holders, and residents, those with income, earned or unearned, in the US or from a US institution, are required to file taxes no matter where they live. Non-resident aliens who have streams of income from the US must also file.

4 I'm missing salary history and / or can't contact my previous employer, what can I do?

I'm missing salary history what can I do?

This is common in the expat world; expats move counties, jobs, cities and houses more than other groups of people. If you don't have payslips, you can use bank records, an employment contract, national year-end tax documents, or a combination thereof. But if we are relying on your memory alone, you must disclose that to me. There is a way to do everything properly, and all I need is full disclosure. It's not a problem.

5 Can you work with me if I live far away or can't meet in person?

Can you work with me if I live far away or can't meet in person?

Many of my clients are distance clients. I work with people all across the Korean peninsula, China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, Germany, India, Turkey, and beyond. Many of my clients continue to use my services even when they repatriate to the US. That first year back can be tricky, and I am happy to help. No matter where you are, I am here for you!

6 What is a tax preparer responsible for?

What is a tax preparer responsible for?

There are two different types of preparers and both are qualified to calculate, file and sign income tax returns on behalf of individuals and businesses. "Enrolled" preparers can also represent the taxpayer during IRS examinations of tax returns. "unenrolled" preparers do not represent clients in front of the IRS. Preparers are required to file the facts as they know them to be.

7 I'm married to a non-American. How does this affect my taxes?

I'm married to a non-American. How does this affect my taxes?

Does your partner have a green card? Does your partner have any income coming from the US? If you answered "no" to these questions, it is unlikely that your partner's income will affect your tax return. The 2018 tax reforms changed how non-resident alien (NRA) spouses are or can be identified on a tax return. If you wish to list your NRA spouse on your return, please let me know. I have excellent work-arounds for these things.

8 I am ashamed that I haven't filed in so long, it's so embarrassing. Are you going to judge me?

I am ashamed that I haven't filed in so long, it's so embarrassing. Are you going to judge me?

Oh, if I had a dollar for every time I heard this....

I am not here to judge you; I am here to help you sort through the facts and offer the best solutions. Your situation might be messy. It might be a mini-mess or a mega-mess, but I have likely seen messier. Expat messes are my wheelhouse.

And if you have a galactic level mess, I know people. I got you.

9 How does your process work?

How does your process work?

Once you decide to file with me, you'll be sent a Google Form to your email. This allows me to collect the information I need to file for you. Once you have returned the form, you need to pay the filing fee for my services. I use Korean banking transfer, American transfers, and Paypal. Once both the form and fee are in, I will get to work.

10 Can you do Korean taxes, too?

Can you do Korean taxes, too?

Staying current on Korean taxes is critical, especially since it is now required for visa renewal. I am not legally allowed to do Korean taxes; but I have a network of amazing Korean tax preparers. I am happy to make a referral for you.