Mel Whitney
Articles
H1B visa taxes: Complete filing guide for nonimmigrant workers (2026)
H1B visa holders typically qualify as US resident aliens for tax purposes after passing the substantial presence test. That means H1B visa tax usually includes federal income tax at 10–37% progressive rates, plus Social Security at 6.2% and Medicare at 1.45%, along with state taxes. The filing deadline is April 15, 2026, for the 2025 ta...
Foreign tax credit carryover: A comprehensive guide for US expats
The foreign tax credit carryover allows US taxpayers to apply unused foreign tax credits to offset future US tax liability. Excess credits can be carried forward 10 years or back 1 year. This prevents loss of valuable tax benefits when foreign taxe...
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion vs Foreign Tax Credit: Which one should you use?
If you're a US expat earning income abroad, you face a critical question: should you use the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC), the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), or both? The wrong choice can cost you thousands in unnecessary taxes or missed refund opportunities. Quick answer: The FTC usually works be...
Where to report foreign income on Form 1040 – and how to exclude it legally
US citizens and green card holders must report their worldwide income – no matter where they live or earn it. The IRS enforces strict rules on disclosing foreign income and offers compliance options such as the SFOP for eligible tax...
FBAR vs. FATCA: What US expats need to know about foreign asset reporting
Money earned in 2025 is only part of your tax picture. The moment you keep savings, investments, or other funds outside the country, the IRS wants to see the full story. Many Americans abroad are surprised by how quickly foreign accounts become part of their yearly filing, which is why FBAR and FATCA play such an important role in staying complia...
How to avoid paying capital gains tax on inherited property
Inheriting property comes with significant tax implications when you sell. Capital gains tax (CGT) on inherited property can substantially reduce your inheritance value—but several legal strategies can help you minimize or eliminate this tax burden entirely. This guide covers six proven methods to avoid capital gains tax on inherited property, pl...