Insights
Practical guidance on U.S. tax and legal matters for Americans living abroad.
Portugal Golden Visa Funds and PFIC Reporting for Americans
Portugal Golden Visa investment funds can create unexpected U.S. tax reporting issues for American investors.
For many U.S. taxpayers, the appeal of Portugal’s Golden Visa is straightforward: a flexible European residency pathway, a relatively limited stay requirement, and a possible long-term route to permanent residence or citizenship. But when the qualifying investment is made through a Portuguese fund, the U.S. tax classification of that fund needs to be considered in advance of finalizing the investment.
PFIC Tax Explained: What Americans Abroad Need to Know
PFIC tax is one of the most commonly misunderstood investment issues for Americans living abroad.
A foreign mutual fund, ETF, pension investment, or residency-by-investment fund may look ordinary in your country of residence, but still create complicated U.S. tax reporting. For U.S. taxpayers, the issue with investing in non-U.S. funds causes qualifying foreign investments to receive unfavorable treatment under U.S. tax rules.
When identified early, PFICs can often be managed. When ignored or miscalculated, they can become expensive and difficult to unwind.
Is an LLC or S-Corp Better for Tax Purposes?
The “LLC vs. S-Corp” question doesn’t have a universal “right” answer, but it does have a right answer for your specific situation. In this article, a CPA with nearly 20 years of small business tax experience and a licensed business attorney break down the real-world considerations so you can make an informed choice.
Navigating Jamaica’s Airbnb Rules and U.S. Tax Law
If you own a short-term rental in Jamaica and you're a U.S. citizen, two governments are tightening their rules on you at the same...
U.S. Tax Implications of Owning Real Estate in Jamaica
Buying property in Jamaica as an American comes with unique tax considerations. This guide explains Jamaica real estate taxes, property ownership rules, and how U.S. tax obligations apply to foreign real estate investments and second homes.
FEIE vs FTC: Choosing the Right Tax Provision
Understanding FEIE vs FTC is key to smart expat tax planning. This article explains how each provision works and how to approach the decision strategically.
Taxation for Expats: A Guide for Americans Abroad
Taxation for expats is often misunderstood, especially by Americans building lives outside the United States. The proliferation of personal finance advice on social media has also intensified this problem. So, let’s be clear up top: You may move countries, get paid in different currencies, and adapt to entirely new systems, but, thanks to citizenship-based taxation, your U.S. tax filing obligation generally follows you.