FAQ
Straight answers to the questions international clients ask most. If yours isn't here, ask me directly.
Working with Miami Global Tax
Who do you work with?
People and businesses with cross-border tax questions: expats, international families, nonresidents, entertainers, creatives and companies working across borders.
Do you prepare simple domestic returns?
Generally no. My practice is focused on international matters. The exception is IRS disputes, where my experience can make a real difference.
Do I need to be in Miami?
No. I meet clients in person in South Florida and work securely with clients anywhere in the world.
Which languages do you work in?
English, with support in Portuguese and Spanish.
Is the first consultation really free?
Yes. It's a 30-minute conversation to understand your situation and explain how I can help. No commitment.
How much do your services cost?
Every international case is different, so I quote after the consultation. You'll get a clear proposal before any work begins.
Does your IRS background give you special access?
No. I no longer work for the IRS and have no special access or influence there. What I bring is experience: I know how the IRS reviews international cases and how to prepare a position that holds up.
International tax basics
I'm a foreign artist performing in the US. Do I owe US tax?
Generally, income from performances in the US is US-source income and can be taxed in the US even if you are not a resident. It is often subject to withholding before you are paid. A tax treaty or advance planning may change the outcome, so it pays to look at it before the tour.
Can a tax treaty help me?
Possibly. Many US tax treaties have specific rules for artists and athletes, and the result depends on your country, how much you earn and how the income is structured. This is one of the core things I analyze.
How do I know if I'm a US tax resident?
For tax purposes, residency is usually determined by the green card test or the substantial presence test, which counts the days you spend in the US. Treaty rules can also apply. It's possible to be a resident for part of the year and a nonresident for the rest.
What is an FBAR?
It's a report of foreign financial accounts filed with the US Treasury (FinCEN Form 114). In general, US persons must file it when the combined value of their foreign accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year.
What is the difference between FBAR and FATCA?
Both cover foreign assets, but they are different reports with different rules and thresholds. FATCA reporting (Form 8938) is filed with your tax return. Many people must file both.
IRS notices and audits
I received a letter from the IRS. What should I do?
Don't ignore it, and don't rush to pay or respond before you understand it. Note the deadline on the letter and book a consultation. If you're already a client, upload every page to your portal.
Can you represent me before the IRS?
Yes. As a CPA, I can represent clients before the IRS in notices, examinations and disputes.
Does an audit mean I did something wrong?
Not necessarily. Many examinations are about verifying information. What matters is responding correctly and on time.
Documents and security
How do I send you documents?
Only through the secure client portal. Please never send tax documents by email.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your information is handled with professional confidentiality and shared only through an encrypted portal.
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