Articles
Understanding Subpart F income: Complete guide for US shareholders
For years, many Americans with overseas companies used foreign entities to delay paying US tax on profits earned abroad. Congress responded by creating Subpart F income rules to close that gap and ensure fairness between domestic and international businesses. When a foreign corporation qualifies as a CFC, its earnings can become taxable in the sa...
RESP: What US expats need to know about education savings and tax implications
Every year, Canadian families pour billions into Registered Education Savings Plans, building a cushion for their children’s future studies. These accounts reward early savers through government grants and years of tax-deferred growth, making the RESP a cornerstone of Canadian education planning. Yet for many US expats in Canada, this same tool c...
Do overseas contractors pay taxes? Understanding international tax obligations
Working as an overseas contractor often means your earnings remain subject to US tax, even while abroad. Relief may come through the foreign earned income exclusion or foreign tax credits, but self-employment tax at 15.3% still applies. This article is brought to you by Taxes for Expats &nda...
Foreign gift tax: reporting rules, Form 3520 & 2025 updates
If you receive a large gift or inheritance from someone abroad, you might wonder if you owe tax. In most cases, you don’t – but you may need to report it to the IRS using Form 3520. This guide explains what the foreign gift tax really means, when you must report, how the rules work in 2025, and what recent laws like the One Big Beauti...
How to become an expat: A complete step-by-step guide to moving abroad
Whether you crave a career leap, a lower cost of living, or golden-years sunshine, thousands of your fellow citizens are making the leap to become an expat abroad. This guide to relocating gives you every practical and emotional tool you need – from choosing a visa to filing your first foreign tax return – so you can be an e...
What is Social Security tax? An essential guide for expats and self-employed Americans
If you're a US citizen or resident working at home or abroad, understanding Social Security tax is crucial for your financial planning. This tax supports benefits that millions of Americans rely on for retirement, disability, and survivors. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, or living overseas, knowing how Social Security tax appli...