Bookkeeping

When it comes to financial planning, few things are as deceptively simple — yet potentially disastrous — as a missing name on a beneficiary form. One client’s experience illustrates how a single blank line on a 401(k) form led to an unexpected $70,000 tax bill, turning what should have been a smooth inheritance into an expensive lesson.

As a tax professional who works closely with real estate agents, brokers, and investors, I’m constantly reminded how even the most successful professionals can lose thousands of dollars in missed deductions — often without realizing it.

Living and working abroad offers exciting opportunities for career growth, lifestyle experiences, and financial diversification. However, for U.S. citizens and green card holders, earning foreign income comes with unique tax obligations that are often misunderstood or overlooked. As a CPA with over 20 years of experience helping U.S. expats navigate complex tax rules, I’ve seen firsthand how even minor missteps in reporting foreign income can lead to penalties, interest, or missed tax benefits. This guide explains what counts as foreign income, how it is taxed, and key strategies for staying compliant while maximizing benefits.

Proper planning and strategic utilization of deductions can save thousands every year. This guide breaks down the most important deductions, eligibility rules, and best practices to ensure you stay compliant while maximizing your tax benefits

When individuals or businesses in Colombia want to protect assets, manage investments, or structure real estate projectsYear-end taxes are sneaking up fast, and if it feels like the calendar just flipped to fall, that’s because it did! Still, the smartest business owners and real estate professionals know: November is the prime time to get ahead of tax season pressure and set up a stress-free year-end finish.

A Colombian Fiduciary (Fiducia) is a popular financial structure used in Colombia for managing assets, investments, and real estate projects. While it might look similar to a U.S. trust, the two are not treated the same—especially by the IRS. For U.S. taxpayers with ties to Colombia, misunderstanding this difference can lead to serious tax reporting issues. This article explains how Fiducias work, how they compare to U.S. trusts, and why the IRS often classifies them as foreign trusts—triggering reporting obligations on Forms 3520 and 3520-A. If you’re investing or managing property in Colombia, understanding the U.S. tax implications of a Fiducia is essential to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.