Articles

IRAs and Roth IRAs for Americans living abroad: 2026 guide

US citizens living abroad can contribute to a Traditional or Roth IRA in 2026 as long as they have earned income not fully excluded by the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE). The Roth IRA contribution limits 2026 amount is $7,500 p...

Social Security benefits as an American living abroad: Everything you need to know

US citizens can usually receive Social Security retirement, disability, and survivor benefits abroad if they qualify and live in a country where the Social Security Administration can send payments. Retirement benefits generally require 40 credits; in 2026, 1 credit requires $1,890 of covered earnings, and 4 credits require $7,...

Guide to IRS Form 9465: Installment Agreement Request

IRS Form 9465 is the official Installment Agreement Request that taxpayers file to set up a monthly payment plan when they cannot pay their federal tax bill in full. The form covers long-term plans of up to 72 months for balances under $50,000, with setup fees ranging from $22 to $178, depending on how you apply and pay. Low-income taxp...

QEF election explained: How to use the Qualified Electing Fund for PFIC reporting

Before diving into a QEF election, it helps to see where the problem begins. Many US shareholders invest overseas and only later learn the IRS treats their fund as a ...