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

FATCA penalties: what happens if you fail to report foreign assets?

For most US taxpayers abroad, FATCA penalties mean Form 8938 penalties. If you were required to file Form 8938 for the 2025 tax year and did not, the starting penalty is $10,000 (2025). It can reach $60,000 (2025) after an IRS notice if the problem is not corrected.</...

Foreign tax credit for US expats: Rules, limits, and how to claim it

The US foreign tax credit is a nonrefundable credit that reduces your US tax bill by the amount of qualifying income tax you paid or accrued to a foreign government on foreign-source income also subject to US tax. It is calculated on ...

Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures removed in 2026: how to file late FBARs now

The Delinquent FBAR filing procedures historically covered an FBAR-only probl...

FinCEN Form 114: FBAR form filing instructions, who must file, and what to report

FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) is the Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts – a disclosure filed separately from your federal income tax return through FinCEN’s BSA E-Filing system, not with the IRS. If the a...

FBAR quiet disclosure: IRS risks, penalties, and safer options

FBAR quiet disclosure is not an official IRS compliance program. It usually ...

FBAR penalties in 2026: amounts, violations, and when they are reduced

In 2026 a non-willful FBAR violation can cost up to $16,536 per annual report, and a willful violation up to the greater of $165,353 or 50% of the account balance. Criminal penalties apply only in the most serious cases....