Expat US Tax

03/06/2026

How much does it cost to renounce US citizenship in 2026-2027?

The US Department of State published a final rule reducing the Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN) processing fee from $2,350 to $450, lowering the cost of renouncing US citizenship. The new fee is now in effect since April 13, 2026.

Is the fee refundable if I change my mind?
No. Once you take the oath and sign the paperwork, the fee is not refundable.

Any scheduling tips to cut the wait?
If your region is busy, you can tentatively hold slots at more than one post to compare timelines, then keep only one and cancel the rest. That keeps you moving without losing your place.

Get detailed information on how renouncing US citizenship works in this article 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/renounce-us-citizenship/

Learn how to renounce US citizenship in 2026 with steps, required forms, fees, timelines, and exit tax basics.

02/06/2026

What is a COVID penalty refund?

A COVID penalty refund generally refers to a taxpayer’s request to recover certain IRS penalties or related interest that may be legally challengeable during the COVID disaster postponement period.

In practical terms, the current debate centers on whether some filing and payment deadlines remained suspended longer than many taxpayers originally believed. That matters because many Americans abroad dealt with unusual compliance problems during the pandemic, including delayed international mail, restricted travel, postponed document processing, and difficulty accessing tax professionals.

As a result, some taxpayers are revisiting older IRS penalties that previously appeared closed or time-barred.

Why are taxpayers discussing COVID penalty refunds now?

The full details are in this blog 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/covid-penalty-refunds/

Some Americans abroad may need Form 843 by July 10, 2026, to preserve potential COVID-era IRS penalty refund claims.

26/05/2026

How does Expat US Tax handle clients?

Over 7 years, Kylie has trusted our team with some of the most complex cross-border tax challenges an expat can face, US filings, Australian non-resident tax implications, and the intricate process of relocating between two tax jurisdictions.

This is exactly the kind of work we are built for. Expat tax situations are rarely straightforward. They evolve, they cross borders, and they require advisors who don't just know the rules, but know how to apply them to real, changing life circumstances.

If you are a US expat looking for advisors who will be with you not just for this tax season, but for every season ahead, we would love to be that team.

Contact our tax experts today 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/contact/

25/05/2026

Do US citizens living in Canada still have to file US taxes?

Yes. A US citizen living in Canada generally still has to file a US tax return, even if they already pay Canadian taxes.

The US uses citizenship-based taxation, so your filing obligation follows you wherever you live. Canada, by contrast, taxes based on residency, meaning if you are a Canadian tax resident, you generally report worldwide income there as well.

In practice, this often leads to dual filing:

• A US return reporting global income
• A Canadian return based on residency

How does Canada tax Americans who live there? Check out the full guide to learn more 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/how-the-us-taxes-its-citizens-living-in-canada/

US citizens in Canada usually file in both countries. Double tax is often reduced using credits, exclusions, or treaty rules.

22/05/2026

Does the difference between nationality and citizenship actually matter for US expats?

For US expats, the difference between nationality and citizenship directly affects tax obligations. The IRS does not rely on nationality. Instead, it determines your filing requirements based on citizenship and residency status.

This means that even if you identify with another country, your US citizenship can still require you to report worldwide income.

If you live outside the US, your tax obligations are not based solely on your nationality. Instead, the IRS looks at:

• Whether you are a US citizen
• Whether you qualify as a resident alien
• Whether you meet filing thresholds for the tax year

Why does the US tax its citizens based on citizenship? Read the full breakdown in this blog 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/difference-between-nationality-and-citizenship/

Nationality explains your legal connection, while citizenship directly affects your day-to-day obligations, especially taxes.

20/05/2026

For US expats, consistency and reliability aren't just nice to have. They are essential. Tax laws change, filing requirements evolve, and having a team that stays on top of it all, while remaining professional, friendly, and attentive, makes all the difference.

Thank you, Leslie, for your unwavering trust in our team over the years. We are committed to continuing to earn it.

If you're a US expat looking for a tax partner you can count on year after year, we'd love to be that team for you.

We provide tailored solutions to fit your tax situation. Contact our tax professionals today 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/contact/

19/05/2026

Is Dubai tax-free for US expats?

Dubai does not impose local income tax on salaries. This is why it is often described as “tax-free.” However, this does not eliminate US tax obligations. As a US citizen, you still need to report your worldwide income and file a US tax return if you meet the filing thresholds.

What does “tax-free Dubai” actually mean?

Dubai has no personal income tax, but it is not a no-tax environment. There are still other taxes that apply, especially when you spend money or run a business.

For most US expats working as employees, the 0% income tax is the main benefit. However, if you run a business or operate through a company, corporate tax rules can apply.

Why do US expats in Dubai still deal with taxes?

Learn everything you need to know about US taxes in Dubai, with real examples included 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/tax-free-dubai/

18/05/2026

Americans abroad who are confident about their US taxes did not get there by guessing. They talked to someone who knew.

US expat tax situations have more moving parts than most people account for, and the gaps tend to widen the longer they go unaddressed.

Missed exclusions, unreported accounts, and incorrect deductions are the kinds of errors that compound quietly and cost significantly when they surface.

Expat US Tax works with Americans abroad every day and has seen these situations many times. Our tax specialists know what to look for and how to resolve it.

Let's find the best solution for you. Book your consultation today 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/consultation/

15/05/2026

How does superannuation work if you're a US expat?

For US expats, superannuation works like a standard Australian retirement system on the surface, but the tax and reporting treatment can differ significantly.

Your employer still contributes to your super fund, and your balance grows through investments. However, unlike Australian residents, US citizens must also consider how contributions, growth, and withdrawals are treated under US tax rules.

This means super can affect:

• Your US taxable income
• Your reporting obligations (such as FBAR or Form 8938)
• How retirement savings are taxed across both countries

Do US expats need to report superannuation?

Check out our complete Superannuation guide for all the details 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/what-is-superannuation-in-australia/

Superannuation in Australia is a compulsory scheme, contrasting with the voluntary nature of 401k contributions in the US.

13/05/2026

Behind every review like Allison's is a dedicated team of expat tax professionals committed to accuracy, transparency, and exceptional client care.

Thank you, Allison, for your kind words and for allowing us to be part of your financial journey.

If you're a US expat looking for a reliable, experienced team to handle your tax obligations, we'd love to help.

Get in touch with our team today 👇
https://www.expatustax.com/contact/