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Mel Whitney

Mel Whitney

Mel Whitney

EA

Expertise:

Non-resident taxation
Real estate taxation
Tax optimization

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Humboldt State University

Mel Whitney, a valued Enrolled Agent (EA) with TFX, combines extensive tax expertise with a rich educational and personal background. His journey into the tax advisory field is underpinned by a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Humboldt State University, a choice that laid the foundation for his distinguished career.

Mel's academic path was marked by a keen interest in tax law and financial strategy, which led him to pursue and achieve the prestigious EA designation, the highest credential awarded by the IRS.

In his role at TFX, Mel is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the US tax code, specializing in services for expatriates. His 15 years of experience in the field is marked by a deep commitment to providing comprehensive, client-focused tax solutions that ensure clients achieve both compliance and optimization in their tax affairs.

Outside of work, Mel restores vintage BMW motorcycles and Volkswagens, and enjoys hiking and skiing near his home in the Cascades.

Mel is also deeply committed to lifelong learning, often attending seminars and workshops to stay ahead of the latest tax regulations and strategies.

His educational background, combined with his professional expertise and personal pursuits, make Mel Whitney a well-rounded individual and a valuable asset to the TFX team. His dedication to his clients, passion for his hobbies, and constant pursuit of knowledge define his approach to life and work.

Articles

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE): Complete guide 2026

The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) is a US tax rule that lets Americans living and working abroad not pay US income tax on part of their foreign income. Generally, you qualify for FEIE if you earn income abroad, l...

Read more 28 Apr, 2026

Am I exempt from FATCA reporting? Rules, exemptions & filing requirements (2026)

The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) is a US law designed to prevent tax evasion by Americans holding money and investments overseas. If you're a US taxpayer or specified domestic entity with foreign assets, k...

Read more 27 Apr, 2026

How to file J-1 visa tax return: a complete guide for visa holders

For the 2026 filing season, most J-1 nonresident aliens must file a nonresident tax return on Form 1040-NR if they have taxable US-source income. J-1 visa taxes are not optional if you have taxable US-source income. Even with no taxable income, many J-1 holders stil...

Read more 24 Apr, 2026

How to report foreign assets to IRS: Form 8938 vs 3520 vs 5471 vs 8865

US citizens and green card holders living abroad may need to file up to eight separate IRS and Treasury forms each year to report foreign assets held offshore, including accounts, entities, trusts, and gifts. Foreign asset reporting is separate from paying US tax, and most expats owe little or nothing federally but still have to file these disclo...

Read more 23 Apr, 2026

Form 8275: The unsung hero of tax disclosure

When it comes to tax returns, sometimes the best offense is a good defense. That&...

Read more 23 Apr, 2026

FBAR fines explained: Failure to file, violations, and penalty mitigation options

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Read more 22 Apr, 2026