Services
Tax guide
WhatsApp
Services
Tax Guide
Articles
All articles
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 rental property depreciation for US expats: ADS rules, 30 vs 40 years, and examples

Foreign rental property depreciation requires the use of ADS – the Alternative Depreciation System, which is one of the two systems within MACRS. Here is what that means in practice: Foreign residential rental property used predominantly outside the US must be depreciated under ADS. ADS uses straight-line deprec...

FBAR vs. Form 8938: A detailed guide to key differences and filing thresholds (2026)

FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) and Form 8938 are two separate US reporting obligations for foreign financial assets. FBAR is filed with FinCEN and applies when aggregate foreign account balances exceed $10,000 at any point during the calendar year. Form 8938 is filed with the IRS and applies to higher-value specified foreign financial assets, w...

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...

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...

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...