One common concern that US taxpayers overseas have, is that the IRS may tax cash in bank accounts. Fortunately, cash in the bank is usually considered to be “post tax”, meaning it assumed that the cash was taxed when the income was earned, as opposed to tax on bank balances. But, in what circumstances may US tax exist on bank balances, and when does the IRS consider income to be earned and US tax to apply?

More than two years after the State Department proposed lowering the fee to renounce US citizenship, a reduction has finally come into affect as of 13th April 2026.

Received a letter from your NZ bank asking for your Social Security Number? This is now standard practice for New Zealand based banks, is part of the obligations required of banks under the FATCA legislation. But, one question we’re frequently asked, is whether New Zealand banks report accounts directly to the IRS?

Considering a US W-2 role in New Zealand? Learn more about the tax implications here

In our article today, we’ll discuss the new final regulations under Section 987 of the US tax code. This code section has been under development by the IRS for more than 30 years, partially due to its complexity but also in attempt to find fairness in its implementation. The regulations became final in December 2024, and as a result we will begin to see changes for the new US tax year, 2025.

As many of us begin preparations for the new 2025 US tax filing year, a reminder today of the final 2025 US estimated tax deadline of 15th January 2026 (16th January in New Zealand).

Whilst there is a wealth of information online regarding different parts of the US tax system, and how it affects those in New Zealand, less often found is some guidance on the basics.

One of our main service areas at The US Tax Team, is US tax advice and consulting. In almost every appointment, the question usually arises of what tax implications exist during the difficult time of losing a loved one, and receiving inheritance in New Zealand.

How are capital gains taxed? Are there any special rules for investing in gold or other precious metals? Learn more here

A new US tax regulation, seventeen years in the making, has recently come into effect which may create a tax liability on the gifts made by former US citizens, even after renouncing US citizenship. Whilst Section 2801 of the tax code came into being back in 2008, it has only this year become a final regulation, and is imposed on gifts made by “covered expatriates”.

Can a New Zealand tax resident be subject to US Estate Tax? This is indeed a possibility, learn more here

Considering a move to New Zealand? Advance US Tax advice can save many headaches along the way.

Given the recent news of NZ Post suspending deliveries to the US, we go over here a few options on posting to the IRS.

In our short article today, we’ll discuss EIN’s, when they’re needed and why you may receive one.

Although this is a subject area I’ve written on many times in the past, the question of the viability of US citizens being involved with NZ trusts is never entirely solved. Of course, as many will be aware of, New Zealand has one of the highest amount of trusts per capita in the world, and despite their tax efficiency decreasing in recent years, they are still very much commonplace.

We were delighted to recently be invited by Brisca New Zealand to take part in their Ambitious Accountants podcast.

Can a 529 Plan be used in New Zealand? Check out our short but simple explainer here.

The Trump Tax Bill, known as the One Beautiful Bill Act is currently making its way through the US lawmaking process. But, how will this bill affect NZ based US citizens?

Is it true that being a self-employed US citizen in New Zealand will expose you to social security tax? Learn more here

Filing your own FBAR from New Zealand? Here's what you need to know