Working with an Tax Advisor/Preparer
FAWCO’S List of U.S. Expatriate Tax Preparers/Advisors
Looking for a preparer or advisor? We’ve got you covered! Check out this constantly updated list of which has been compiled from FAWCO members recommendations, HowToGermany.com, and the US consulate lists.
Have others to recommend be added to the list? Please send an email to .
Preparing
It’s best to be as prepared as possible before you’re ready to fill out the forms, or go to an advisor or tax preparer if you are using an expert, to file your taxes. Here are some resource lists to get you started.
FAWCO Tax Laundry List PDF (60KB)
This is a compiled summary of tax related information needed for you and your children to file their U.S. tax return and other necessary forms.
10 tips to help you choose a tax preparer, a quick guide by the IRS.
Introduction about working with tax advisors and preparers in FAWCO’s U.S. Tax, Banking and Filing guide
Thoughts on selecting a U.S. Tax Preparer - Suitability vs. cost
Here are some links to external Preparers FAQs for those filing overseas returns:
http://www.greenbacktaxservices.com/faq/filing-your-us-expat-taxes-late/
Self-Prepared Returns
Among a few options to prepare your own tax returns, you can file electronically with IRS Free File. It is available and everyone is eligible. If your adjusted gross income (AGI) is equivalent to $58,000 or less*, this means free brand-name software (if AGI is more than $58,000 then you’re eligible for online fillable forms).
*Per the IRS, this option will be especially attractive to taxpayers living and working abroad as most can claim the foreign earned income exclusion; and, because the $58,000 income limit applies after the exclusion of up to $97,600 (for 2013) is subtracted, this effectively makes FreeFile available even to many higher-income taxpayers.
It’s available each year by January 31, just go to www.irs.gov/freefile and select "Pick a Free File Company" (for overseas taxpayers/foreign addresses this year (for 2013) there appears to be 6).
US taxes: E-filing from overseas
ExpatForum post about the online filing options, including those for Americans and green card holders with a foreign address. They are:
- Free file - highlights the companies (about 6 for 2013) who will help those with foreign address to free file
- Free file fillable forms (though does not work for those with a foreign address)
- E-file with commercial software
- E-filing through a paid preparer