expat network

Taxes For Expats – Tax Filing For Americans Abroad

Filing US taxes while living in another country can be complicated. These include managing foreign income, updating your address, and navigating tax regulations that may not align with the realities of living abroad. This is a common scenario for the millions of US citizens living overseas. Taxes for Expats (TFX) is a US-based tax firm that provides services specifically for Americans living abroad. For over 20 years, the company has focused on tax compliance and planning for expatriates.

How Taxes for Expats stands out for US expats

TFX has prepared tax returns for over 50,000 individuals in more than 190 countries. According to internal data, approximately 90% of its clients return annually for continued service.

Professional support

TFX assigns each client an experienced advisor who specializes in US international tax law. The advisor reviews the client’s financial and residency information and prepares the necessary filings.

The process is designed to address scenarios such as income earned in other countries, claims under tax treaties, and required disclosures of foreign accounts.

Range of tax services

TFX offers a variety of services related to US expat tax compliance. These include:

Preparation of US tax returns

This includes Form 1040, as well as relevant schedules and attachments, such as Form 2555 (Foreign Earned Income Exclusion) and Form 1116 (Foreign Tax Credit).

Foreign bank account and asset reporting

Filing FBARs (FinCEN Form 114) for individuals with foreign accounts exceeding $10,000 and FATCA reporting (Form 8938) for certain foreign financial assets.

Ongoing tax planning

TFX offers year-round guidance for clients anticipating international moves, income changes, or investments abroad.

IRS representation

The firm provides support in the event of inquiries or audits initiated by the IRS.

State tax compliance

TFX assists individuals who maintain ties to a US state or move abroad mid-year with state tax filings.

Pricing structure

Taxes for Expats offers a flat-fee pricing model. Prices for standard services are listed in advance, and additional fees apply to optional services, such as FBAR or state filings. There are no hourly charges.

This pricing approach is intended to provide predictability and reduce ambiguity regarding service costs.

Built for busy expats

The firm’s platform includes a secure client portal. The portal’s features include:

  • Document upload capabilities
  • Direct communication with assigned advisors
  • Real-time updates on filing status

Data is stored using encrypted systems. The platform is structured to support clients across various time zones and accommodate remote access needs.

Services for US citizens living abroad

TFX provides a range of services tailored to expatriates. These services include preparing required federal and international forms, supporting foreign account disclosures, and providing guidance on US state tax obligations when relevant. The following outlines these services:

ServiceWhat you get
Federal returnThis includes expat-specific forms, such as Form 1040, Form 1116 (Foreign Tax Credit), Form 2555 (Foreign Earned Income Exclusion), and Schedules A and B, as well as 10 interest and dividend transactions. The standard package is $450.
FBAR & FACTAExpert filing + penalty protection. Just $185 flat fee
Streamlined filing     Three years of delinquent federal returns and six years of FBARs, with additional forms included at no extra cost. $1,450
State tax returnsIf you’re still tied to a US state: $160 per return
Form 5471     Forms and schedules for expatriates with foreign business interests. $625

 

Process overview: Working with Taxes for Expats (TFX)

At Taxes for Expats (TFX), the tax preparation process is structured to support US citizens living abroad through each phase of compliance.

Step 1: Account setup and initial information

Clients begin by creating an account on the TFX platform. They complete a secure online questionnaire that collects information about their residence, income, and other relevant tax factors.

Step 2: Customized documentation checklist

Based on the responses to the questionnaire, a tax advisor compiles a personalized list of required documents. This list usually includes foreign income records, financial account details, and prior-year returns, if applicable.

Step 3: Tax return preparation and review

A licensed CPA or EA prepares the client’s return, incorporating forms specific to expatriate filers, such as Form 2555, Form 1116, the Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts, and the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act form.

A senior professional then reviews the return to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Step 4: Client review and revisions

Clients are given the opportunity to review a draft of the prepared return. They may ask questions, request clarifications, or suggest revisions. All communication is conducted directly with the assigned advisor.

Step 5: Submission and record delivery

Upon final approval, TFX files the return electronically or by mail, as required. A copy of the completed return is made available to the client through the secure portal.

Step 6: Post-filing support

Advisors are available to assist clients with follow-up questions or issues. The system also provides reminders and updates about key deadlines or changes in tax regulations.

Processing time

According to the firm, most tax returns are processed within 15 business days of submitting all the necessary information.

Conclusion

You need someone who knows expat rules cold: FEIE vs. FTC, when to file FBARs, how treaties actually work. That’s what TFX has done for 20+ years. We pair you with a seasoned advisor, collect only the docs that matter, prep and file your return (federal, state, late, or streamlined), and stay on call year‑round, so you avoid penalties and keep more of what you earn.