U.S. Tax Information
(3/20/09)
The IRS has created a new comprehensive tax page designed to help U.S. citizens living abroad. On it, you can find basic tax information that Americans overseas need to know and also includes links to more detailed topics such as the foreign earned income exclusion, foreign tax credit, reporting foreign bank accounts, fulbright grants, state taxes, and a myriad of others.
The site also provides information on how to contact the IRS to get additional assistance.
I am a U.S. Citizen living overseas, do I need to file a U.S. tax return?
Yes, most U.S. Citizens must report their worldwide income on their U.S. tax return (minimum income levels apply as determined by filing status). This also applies to those people who are self-employed and earn a net-profit of US$400 or more as they are subject to social security and medical taxes. In many instances, you will qualify to claim an exclusion of up to US$70,000 for your foreign earned income; however, you must file a return to claim the exclusion. You also may be entitled to a credit for taxes paid to a foreign government, but you must file a return to claim this credit.
What if I haven't filed tax returns recently?
You are required to file a tax return for any year that your income exceeds minimum filing levels. Contact the IRS to bring your accounts up to date. If you owe back taxes and are unable to pay in full, the IRS offers installment payment arrangements and considers offers-in-compromise to satisfy a tax liability. Taxpayers who come forward, make a true voluntary disclosure, and file an accurate return, will not be prosecuted. For more information or filing assistance, please contact the IRS.
When am I required to file my tax return?
- U.S. Citizens - 15 April
- U.S. Citizens living overseas - 15 June (please attach form 4868 to your tax return explaining your residence outside of the U.S.)
- Non-resident Aliens with U.S. wage income - 15 April
- Non-resident Aliens with no U.S. wage income - 15 June
Additional extensions are available by filing form 4868 for extensions.
How do I contact the IRS?
How do I obtain IRS forms?
Could you please advise the tax exchange rate?
For the Year ended 31 December 2008 the exchange rate was:
NZ$ to US$ = 0.7146
US$ to NZ$ = 1.4250
For the Year ended 31 December 2007 the exchange rate was:
NZ$ to US$ = 0.7365
US$ to NZ$ = 1.3620
For the Year ended 31 December 2006 the exchange rate is:
NZ$ to US$ = 0.6492
US$ to NZ$ = 1.5403
Are there U.S. tax specialists in New Zealand?
U.S. tax specialists in New Zealand
What is an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)? How do I apply for it?
An Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) is used by persons who are not U.S. citizens/nationals or permanent residents (these people have Social Security numbers).
You may apply for an ITIN by completing a W-7 form and attaching a certified copy of your identification, e.g. current passport.
If you still have tax questions, please contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Service Center in Philadelphia on +1 215 516 2000. The Service Center is open 20 hours a day, from 6.00am to 2.00am (U.S. Eastern standard time).
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