Question 1

Do you prepare regular U.S. tax returns?

Accepted Answer

Our practice is focused on international and cross-border tax matters.We may prepare individual or business tax returns when they are part of a broader international engagement, but we generally do not accept domestic-only tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, or routine accounting engagements.

Question 2

What if I missed an international tax filing or think a prior return was incorrect?

Accepted Answer

We can review prior filings, identify missing or inaccurate international reporting, and help determine an appropriate path forward.International tax forms can carry substantial penalties, so we generally recommend evaluating the full situation before simply filing a late form or amending a return.

Question 3

Can you work with my accountant or attorney in another country?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many of our clients already have accountants, attorneys or other advisers in their home country.When appropriate, we coordinate with those advisers while focusing on the U.S. tax issues. You generally do not need to replace your existing local adviser in order to work with us.

Question 4

How much does an engagement cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees depend on the complexity of the situation, the entities and countries involved, the number of tax years involved, and the filings or analysis required.Most new cross-border engagements start in the $3,000–$4,000 range, and more complex matters may be substantially higher.We establish the scope of work and fee before beginning substantive work.

Question 5

Do you offer free consultations?

Accepted Answer

We do not provide free technical tax advice or tax planning consultations.You are welcome to send us a brief description of your situation. We will review it to determine whether the matter appears to fit our practice and, if appropriate, discuss the next step and proposed scope of work.

Question 6

What happens after I contact you?

Accepted Answer

Start by telling us briefly about your situation, including the countries involved, relevant entities or investments, and the issue you are trying to resolve.We will review the information to determine whether the matter fits our practice. If it does, we will explain the next step and, where possible, outline the anticipated scope and fee.

Question 7

What information should I provide when I contact you?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to organize a complete tax file before reaching out.A useful initial description typically includes:Where you live and your U.S. citizenship or residency status, if relevantThe countries involvedAny U.S. or foreign companies you ownThe approximate ownership percentagesThe tax years involvedAny international tax forms you know were filed or missedAny IRS notices you have receivedA brief explanation of what you are trying to accomplish or correct
We can request additional documents after determining that the matter fits our practice.

Question 8

Do I need to be located in the United States to work with you?

Accepted Answer

No. We work remotely with clients located in the United States and abroad.Documents, meetings and most communications can be handled electronically, making it practical to work together regardless of where you are located.

U.S. Tax Help for Cross-Border Situations

Which Cross-Border Situation Describes You?

New to the U.S. Tax System

Foreign Person with U.S. Business or Income

U. S. Taxpayer With Foreign Assets or Businesses

Cross-Border Filing Problem or Cleanup

Meet Your Tax Professional

Marcus Shimotsu

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