US filing obligations from China
US citizens and green card holders must file a federal return even while living abroad. Our partner helps Americans in Shanghai stay compliant.
US Expat Tax Filing for American Expats in China
Our tax partner helps US citizens and green card holders in Shanghai meet filing obligations - including the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion up to $132,900.
- ✓ Specialist support for Americans in China
- ✓ FEIE and foreign reporting guidance
- ✓ Response within 1–2 business days
Living in China, filing in the US
As an American expat living and working in Shanghai or anywhere else in China, it is important to keep up to date with your tax filing obligations back home in the United States.
Expats often have very unique financial situations that might not be familiar to most CPAs back home who do not work with expats on a daily basis. Our expat tax filing partners specialize in working with U.S. expats and their filing obligations and the exemptions that American expats are eligible for.
Common situations we help with
- ✓ First US return while living in China
- ✓ Claiming the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
- ✓ Foreign Tax Credit vs exclusion planning
- ✓ FBAR and FATCA reporting questions
- ✓ Catching up on prior-year filings
- ✓ Self-employment and contractor income abroad
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
Qualifying expats can exclude up to $132,900 of foreign-earned income from US tax (subject to IRS rules and annual limits).
FBAR & reporting
Foreign bank accounts and certain assets may trigger additional reporting. Get guidance on what applies to your situation.
Common questions
Do I still need to file if I pay tax in China?
Often yes. The US taxes citizens and permanent residents on worldwide income, but mechanisms like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit can reduce double taxation when applied correctly.
What is the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion?
If you meet IRS residency tests, you may exclude qualifying foreign-earned income up to the annual limit ($132,900 for the current filing guidance we share on this page). Our partner explains eligibility and documentation.
Who is this service for?
Americans living in China - employees, freelancers, business owners, and families - who want help preparing or reviewing their US federal return and related disclosures.
Is this tax advice?
No. This page is general information only. Our partner provides professional tax services after reviewing your individual circumstances.