The Ultimate Tax Guide for Australian Expats in the US in 2025

 

Get back on track with your U.S. Tax Returns.

Uptrend Advisory has provided advice to help Green Card and other visa holders navigate US tax issues, and prepared and filed US tax returns for hundreds of Australian expats.

As Australian expats ourselves, Uptrend Advisory gives you peace of mind and makes US tax compliance effortless and efficient for you. Got a question? Drop us a line and we'll help get your US tax return (back) on track.

 

What we offer expats

  • US Tax Return Preparation

  • Tax Advice for visas, green cards, and more

  • IRS Amnesty Program Assistance

 

If you’re one of the many thousands of Australian expats working in the US with a Green Card or a visa such as the E-3, J-1, and H-1B visas—are you aware of your US tax obligations?

For instance, do you know your residency status for tax purposes? And why it’s essential for filing your US tax return correctly?

Or if you only recently realized you’re required to file a US tax return, do you know how to reduce—or avoid—fines?

The following tax guide for Australian expats in the US has been prepared using our extensive knowledge of the US and Australian taxation systems.

Disclaimer: The following tax guide for Australian expats in the US is intended for general information purposes only. Contact us for taxation advice specific to your circumstances.

 

US Tax Basics for Australian Expats in the US.

Issues with US Tax Return Filing for Australian Expats in the US

Help! What should I do? I’m an Australian expat on an E-3, J-1, H-1B, or Green Card and:

  • I’m late filing my US tax return. 

  • I haven’t filed any US tax returns because I didn’t realize I needed to.

  • The IRS has notified me that my previous US tax return had errors and I now owe extra US tax. 

  • The IRS sent me an inquiry and I need to resubmit my tax return.

  • I think the last US tax return I filed was incorrect or missing information.

  • I’m not sure if my last US tax return was filed on time (or at all).

Firstly, the IRS has procedures in place to help resolve common difficulties. For instance, if you think you’ll be late filing your tax return, you can apply to the IRS for an extension. Also, if you haven’t filed your taxes in three or more years, you may be eligible for the IRS Streamlined Procedures, which is an amnesty program that can reduce or eliminate your penalties.

Secondly, it’s also advisable to seek specialist help from a US tax professional who’s knowledgeable on taxation for Australian visa holders in the US.

As Australian expat tax accountants, Uptrend Advisory has helped hundreds of Australian E-3, J-1, H-1B, and Green Card holders successfully resolve IRS inquiries. As Aussies expats in the US ourselves, we understand how stressful it can be when you’re far away from home with the added worry of getting (back) on track with your US tax returns.

Uptrend Advisory are specialists in American tax compliance and how it applies to Australian expats in the US. We’re here to help. Get in touch and we’ll advise you on the best way to resolve your concern so that you’re compliant with your US taxation requirements.

Resident Alien vs. Non-resident Alien Status

How to file a US Tax Return as an Australian Expat

Expat Tax Services for Australians in the US

US-Australia Tax Treaty

US Taxes For E-3 Visa Holders

US Taxes For Green Card Holders

US Taxes For H-1B Visa Holders

US Taxes For Australian Expats Working in the US as a Freelancer

US Taxes For Australian Expats in the US who are Dual Citizens

US Taxes For Australian Expats in the US with Complex Circumstances

As an Australian working in the US, how do I handle US tax filing if my situation is complicated because:

  • I have a financial life both in the US and Australia.

  • I own real estate both in the US and Australia.

  • My US spouse and I got divorced.

  • My US spouse and I got divorced and we have children together.

  • I’ve worked in other countries in addition to the US and Australia.

  • I operate a small business in the US.

  • I have no idea how to report my US income to the IRS or the ATO.

Drop us a line and let us know your question. As Australian expat taxation accountants, Uptrend Advisory specializes in US tax services and US tax filing for Australian E-3, H-1B, and J-1 visa, and Green Card holders.

US Taxes For Australian Expats Working in the US with Dependants

I’m an Australian with children working in the US. What do I need to know about tax filing in the US?

You may be able to claim a child tax credit for dependent children on your US tax return. You need a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for your child. If your child was born in the US they’re automatically a US citizen and are eligible for a SSN. Otherwise you need to apply for an ITIN.

To claim the credit you need to file your tax return according to the guidelines specified by the IRS.  

Uptrend Advisory has helped hundreds of Australian expats in the US successfully claim the child tax credit when filing their US tax return. Drop us a line and we’ll put you on the right track.

You should also review your exemptions on your W-4 Form as it may benefit you to claim the dependent exemption.

US Taxes For Australian Expats in the US with a Flexible Spending Account

I’m an Australian working in the US with a Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA). Do I need to report this on my US tax return?

Generally, you don’t have to report FSA contributions on your US tax return. However, there are US tax reporting requirements for some types of medical savings accounts and health savings accounts. So it’s important to be sure about the US tax reporting obligations associated with your plan.

Drop us a line if you have a question about your FSA and US tax filing. As a US tax service for Australian expats living in the US, Uptrend Advisory has helped Australian expats with an FSA with their US tax filing.

US Taxes For Australian Expats in the US with a College Fund

I’m an Australian working in the US with a college fund. Do I need to report this on my US tax return?

For a 529 plan there are generally no reporting requirements on your federal US tax return. However some states offer credits or deductions for a 529 plan so you may benefit from reporting contributions on your state income tax return.

Drop us a line if you have a question about 529 plans and US tax filing. As Australian expat tax accountants, Uptrend Advisory specializes in tax filing for Australian expats in the US and we’ve helped Australian expats with a 529 plan with their US tax filing.

US Taxes For Australian Expats in the US with a 401(K) or IRA

I’m an Australian working in the US with a 401(k) or IRA. Do I need to report this on my US tax return? 

Generally, you can claim a deduction for 401(k) contributions. However if you leave a US employer and cash out your 401(k) you may be subject to taxes or penalties. If you fully rollover your 401(k) into an IRA you generally won’t be subject to US taxes. But conditions apply so it’s advisable to consult a US tax specialist if you’re in this situation.

Drop us a line if you have a question about your 401(k) or IRA and US tax filing. As a US taxation service for Australian expats living in the USA, Uptrend Advisory has helped Australian expats with an IRA or 401 (k).