Tax advise / recommendations for a foreigner!? (how much, income, taxes)

[BGrant]

Hi Guys

I guess we need to file our first set of taxes soon - first set since we moved from the UK last year! A bit daunting, but...

Does anyone have any recommendations for local companies / accountants in the triangle, who specifically have experience with non-US citizens filing? I've had a look and can see that H&R Block apparently can do this, but I find that local recommendations are often a good way to go. Specifically, any Brits on here that have recommendations - I believe there's something called a "Double Taxation Treaty" with the UK that the accountant should be aware of?

I'm guessing that a private message for a recommendation is the best way to go - would be welcome and appreciated!

On a related note, is there any "ball park" figure as to how much this should cost, or is completely unique based on each persons circumstances?

Cheers

[Beermat]

with the number of people on ex pat assignments in the Triangle I am amazed that there were no responses to this thread - guess everyone was busy playing in the snow or maybe their employers prepare their tax returns for them

[JoeChristmas]

I'm an American but lived abroad for many years. I know how critical it is to have a good tax adviser. And my first year back, I had to find someone who could make sense of my foreign taxes and apply to what I had to file here, as well. Long story short: I would avoid H&R block.

Find a good CPA who owns his own business. You will probably pay 100 dollars more but it will be well worth it. Just go through the yellow pages and have a quick chat with a few in your area. Check on rates, experience with foreigners, etc.

Good luck.

--JC

[BGrant]

Thanks - I think I've found someone locally who can help - have been passed his details by a local (American!) colleague - finger's crossed!

[hemera]

hi my friend,

we had the same problem, when we moved over from Germany 3 years ago. We found a really heplful girl, who did all the taxes for us and everything was perfect. we didn't have to worry about anything. just give me a call or we can hang out a tralli one night a nd i will give you the informations (now, you should know, who i am )

[BGrant]

Originally Posted by hemera

hi my friend,

we had the same problem, when we moved over from Germany 3 years ago. We found a really heplful girl, who did all the taxes for us and everything was perfect. we didn't have to worry about anything. just give me a call or we can hang out a tralli one night a nd i will give you the informations (now, you should know, who i am )

Ahh! "Ze Germans" - lol, if you haven't seen the movie "Snatch" by Guy Ritchie - watch it and you'll know what I mean

[hemera]

i think i know, what you mean....hahaha......

[NC Geordies]

Originally Posted by BGrant

Thanks - I think I've found someone locally who can help - have been passed his details by a local (American!) colleague - finger's crossed!

Hi, we are in the same position having moved from UK last year. Can you recommend anyone?

[BGrant]

Sure -drop me a PM and I'll give you the details. I met with someone today - was not cheap (although this is relative) - but seems to have been great!

[donna78]

Taxes are not that difficult to do on your own. Be aware that, when we moved from England 10 years ago, the tax treaty said you didn't have to pay taxes for the first 3 years. HOWEVER, if you stay for the 4th and beyond you have to start paying taxes AND back taxes for the 3 years so be wary of any advice you receive telling you not to pay taxes. Thankfully, I knew we would be staying so I didn't take that treaty.
We have always done our ourselves, and turbo tax online makes it very easy, even with itemized deductions, misc. income etc. It also does your state taxes.
Good luck.