Can A Local Tax Return Service Handle International Filing?
There are many reasons why an individual may need to file with a foreign country. The restrictions and regulations will vary depending on what country you're working with, but are most complicated when you are a US resident living abroad and filing in America.
Living Abroad As A US Resident
Many people who move to another country but do not renounce US citizenship are unaware that they may continue to be liable for US taxes even if they aren't currently residing within the country. Unfortunately, in many cases the liability does still exist, and failing to pay it can result in dramatically negative consequences.
The codes that apply to other countries are almost universally less complicated than ours. It may be tempting to turn to whomever is currently organizing your forms for your country of residence, and there is a chance that they may be aware of the rules and regulations that govern the US payment. But is that guaranteed? No, it isn't. And even so, it's not necessarily true that the people running your chosen office have a PTIN, which is necessary to file a US return for payment.
What To Do If Your Local Office Doesn't Work
You should be able to quickly determine whether or not you'll be able to use your nearest tax return service. Don't be surprised if the answer is no: it's not common for them to have what is necessary to file in the US. You'll need to make plans for what you'll do instead. The most common technique is to turn to the internet. There are plenty of online filing utilities and resources which can make it easier. But in some cases this won't be enough. The process can be exceptionally complicated and is fraught with problems that can often be overcome only by expert advice.
As soon as you get the relevant forms, contact a major prep firm in a big city. New York, DC, and Chicago tax offices are a good bet for anyone living in Europe. If you're Asia-based, try Los Angeles or San Francisco. The geographical proximity here makes it a lot easier for you to find the specific skills and country experience that you're seeking.
Getting in touch with these places early is absolutely crucial for the best results. The best ones may become filled to capacity with clients before the first month of the year. They may require additional documentation. It may simply be a long process to get everything worked out and documented. Regardless, it's best to get everything started early so that disruptions are minimal and success is assured.
Living Abroad As A US Resident
Many people who move to another country but do not renounce US citizenship are unaware that they may continue to be liable for US taxes even if they aren't currently residing within the country. Unfortunately, in many cases the liability does still exist, and failing to pay it can result in dramatically negative consequences.
The codes that apply to other countries are almost universally less complicated than ours. It may be tempting to turn to whomever is currently organizing your forms for your country of residence, and there is a chance that they may be aware of the rules and regulations that govern the US payment. But is that guaranteed? No, it isn't. And even so, it's not necessarily true that the people running your chosen office have a PTIN, which is necessary to file a US return for payment.
What To Do If Your Local Office Doesn't Work
You should be able to quickly determine whether or not you'll be able to use your nearest tax return service. Don't be surprised if the answer is no: it's not common for them to have what is necessary to file in the US. You'll need to make plans for what you'll do instead. The most common technique is to turn to the internet. There are plenty of online filing utilities and resources which can make it easier. But in some cases this won't be enough. The process can be exceptionally complicated and is fraught with problems that can often be overcome only by expert advice.
As soon as you get the relevant forms, contact a major prep firm in a big city. New York, DC, and Chicago tax offices are a good bet for anyone living in Europe. If you're Asia-based, try Los Angeles or San Francisco. The geographical proximity here makes it a lot easier for you to find the specific skills and country experience that you're seeking.
Getting in touch with these places early is absolutely crucial for the best results. The best ones may become filled to capacity with clients before the first month of the year. They may require additional documentation. It may simply be a long process to get everything worked out and documented. Regardless, it's best to get everything started early so that disruptions are minimal and success is assured.
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