Taxbytes for Expats

If you’re a US citizen or green card holder living abroad (particularly here in Ireland) you’ve probably wondered at some point if keeping that US status is worth the hassle.

In this episode, I’m joined by Alexander Marino, Director of US Tax Law at Moodys Tax and one of the world’s leading experts on US expatriation. His team works with clients across six continents to navigate the legal and tax complexities of renouncing US citizenship or terminating long-term green card status.

We dig into why more expats are choosing to renounce, what really drives the decision (it’s not just politics!) and how US tax obligations can quietly snowball into a long-term financial and emotional burden. Alex walks us through the real risks and makes the case for getting clear, strategic advice if you’re considering this path.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with Alexander Marino. Subscribe to make sure you get Part 2 next time.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Why Expats Are Renouncing US Citizenship: Alex shares the key reasons people take this step, from sky-high compliance costs to the frustration of being taxed by two countries on the same income.
2. The Emotional and Financial Decision-Making Process: This comes up a lot with clients: the emotional attachment to US citizenship can cloud what’s otherwise a straightforward financial decision.
3. The Hidden Tax Pitfalls for US Expats Abroad: Alex outlines the tax landmines US citizens often don’t see coming when they live overseas, especially in high-tax jurisdictions like Ireland.
4. What It Really Means to Renounce—And Do It Right: Alex explains that renouncing properly isn’t just handing over a passport.
5. Timelines, Triggers, and Taking Action: We cover when to start the process, what triggers might make it urgent (like selling a property), and why wait times at embassies can be longer than you think.

Get in touch with Alex :

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://moodysprivateclient.com/team/marino-alexander/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-marino-45a76b26/

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation with Dan Howse. Scroll back in the feed to hear Part 1 of Dan’s conversation.

In this episode of Taxbytes for Expats I’m back with Dan Howse, global mobility expert and Tax Partner at Tax Advisory Partnership, to unpack the recent seismic changes to the UK’s non-domicile tax regime. If you’re a UK expat, a returning Brit, or someone with cross-border ties to the UK, this will help you figure out what's been happening in the UK and if you're impacted by the changes.

Dan walks us through what’s changing, from the scrapping of the remittance basis of tax to the introduction of the new Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) regime. We talk about transitional rules, short vs long-term tax planning opportunities, the practical implications for remote workers, and how these shifts affect the UK’s tax appeal for expats compared to other countries (Ireland included, we still have a remittance basis FYI!).

As ever, it’s about helping our clients not just stay compliant but make informed, strategic choices. There’s plenty in here for individuals and employers alike, especially if you’ve got staff moving between the UK and Ireland or further afield.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Abolition of the UK Domicile Concept & Remittance Basis: Dan explains the end of domicile as a tax concept in the UK and how the remittance basis has been replaced, simplifying the system but reducing long-term planning opportunities.
2. Introduction of the Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) Regime: The new FIG regime allows qualifying individuals to be taxed only on UK income and gains for their first four years of UK residence, creating new opportunities for returning expats and inbound professionals.
3. Overseas Workday Relief and Remote Work Implications: The changes expand access to overseas workday relief, making it easier for cross-border workers and frequent travellers to claim UK tax exemptions on non-UK workdays.
4. Impact on Long-Term Planning and Inheritance Tax Exposure: With fewer incentives for long-term non-doms, the UK may lose its appeal for high-net-worth individuals, prompting a need to re-evaluate estate planning and domicile assumptions.
5. Ireland’s Position in Contrast to UK Changes: Stephanie highlights how Ireland’s retention of the remittance basis may become more attractive in comparison, especially for those considering their next move.

Get in touch with Dan Howse:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-howse

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

If you’re working remotely across borders, or managing people who are, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Dan Howse, Partner at Tax Advisory Partnership in the UK, for part one of a practical conversation on cross-border working, social insurance, and how things have (or haven’t) shifted post-Brexit.

This comes up a lot in conversations with clients: someone living in Ireland, working for a UK company, or the other way around and nobody’s quite sure where social insurance should be paid. Dan breaks it down clearly, covering the 25% rule, what employers need to know before saying yes to remote work requests, and the hidden costs that can catch you off guard if you don't plan for it.

The key thing to note here is that tax and social insurance are not the same, but sound financial and tax advice from an expert like Dan Howse is the best way to find the best answer for you.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Remote Working After COVID and Brexit: More people are living in one country and working in another but many employers still aren’t ready for it.
2. Social Insurance vs Tax: They're not the same, and mixing them up can cost you and should be addressed separately and deliberately.
3. Cross-Border Rules Between Ireland and the UK: Despite Brexit, many of the old EU rules still apply between Ireland and the UK.
4. Employer Responsibilities and Risks: If your employee works abroad, you could be on the hook; even if you didn’t know.
5. Why Individuals Should Care About Social Insurance: It’s not just about payroll: this affects your pension, maternity leave and more.

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is the second part of a two-part conversation with Amber Dawson - make sure to listen to Part 1 for the full background on our initial chat and intro to Amber.

In this second part of my chat with Amber Dawson, senior financial advisor at Ally Wealth Management in Perth, we’re talking about superannuation: what it is, how it works, and why it’s one of the most tax-efficient ways to build long-term wealth for expats living and working in Australia.

We unpack the tax benefits of super contributions, what happens when you leave Australia, and why trying to cash out early could cost you dearly. Amber shares practical tips for anyone navigating financial decisions between Ireland and Australia, from capital gains on Aussie property to the challenges of moving pensions across borders. We also talk about common mistakes expats make, the emotional side of relocation, and the power of planning your financial future BEFORE life makes the decision for you.

If you’re an Irish expat in Australia, a returning Irish repat, or just trying to make sense of your super and investments when living elsewhere, you’ll find what you need here.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Superannuation Basics & Tax Benefits: Amber explains how superannuation works in Australia, including its tax-advantaged structure and why it's a key tool for long-term wealth building.
2. Accessing Super When Leaving Australia: We explore what happens to your super if you leave Australia, including the potential tax pitfalls of early withdrawals and why patience often pays off.
3. Transferring Pensions Across Borders: Amber and I discuss the complexities of moving pension funds between Australia and other jurisdictions, particularly the limited options for transferring super out of Australia.
4. Financial Planning for Expats & Repatriation: Whether you're planning to leave Australia or return, we highlight the importance of future-proofing your financial decisions based on your goals—even when life doesn’t go to plan.
5. Common Mistakes Expats Make: From poorly timed property sales to misaligned financial products, Amber shares real-world examples of avoidable mistakes and the value of seeking advice early.

Your special offer from Amber Dawson & Ally Wealth:

Book a meeting with Amber to start your personalised Strategy Paper: https://calendly.com/ally-wealth-amber/introductory-meeting-online.

Amber’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-dawson/

More info for Expats on Ally Wealth’s Website: https://allywealth.com.au/blog/

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

Australia is popular with Irish Expats and there are plenty of Australian Citizens who want to live around the world - and often the finance planning takes a backseat on their journeys.

In this episode, I’m joined by Amber Dawson, Senior Financial Adviser at Ally Wealth Management in Perth, who specialises in helping Australian expats manage their finances smartly, wherever life takes them.

Amber shares her perspective as both a qualified adviser and a former expat herself, giving practical guidance on the big questions clients face when moving countries. We cover Australian tax residency pitfalls, how rental income from Australian property is taxed, and what often gets overlooked in the rush to relocate. We also explore capital gains tax traps, why foreign income can be taxed differently depending on your residency status, and how to avoid costly surprises with your investment portfolio when leaving Australia.

Whether you're returning to Ireland after years abroad or heading across the world for a fresh start, this will help you find the right people to talk to in the Australian system.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Tax Residency and Relocation Pitfalls: Amber explains how Australia’s residency rules aren’t black-and-white.
2. Tax Treatment of Australian Rental Property: We talk through how rental income from an Australian property is taxed when you're living overseas—including the flat 30% rate for non-residents.
3. Capital Gains Tax for Expats: Amber mentions how selling property or investments as a non-resident can trigger higher CGT bills.
4. Cross-Border Tax Coordination: We look at why it’s essential to get advice in both countries when moving between Ireland and Australia (including the double tax treaty).
5. Expat Client Types and Real-Life Challenges: From young professionals to retirees and families with kids, Amber shares the different types of expats she advises and how their needs vary.

Your special offer from Amber Dawson & Ally Wealth:

Book a meeting with Amber to start your personalised Strategy Paper: https://calendly.com/ally-wealth-amber/introductory-meeting-online.

Amber’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-dawson/

More info for Expats on Ally Wealth’s Website: https://allywealth.com.au/blog/

*****

If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Thinking of bringing your car back to Ireland when you move? There’s quite a few things you need to know before you start planning!

In this episode, I’m joined by someone who knows the process inside-out: my husband, Bryan Wickham. As well as being a chartered accountant, Bryan’s a long-time car enthusiast who’s imported vehicles from overseas and handled all the twists and turns of VRT, customs, and navigating Revenue.

We talk through the key tax and practical considerations for expats moving cars into Ireland. When exemptions apply, what paperwork is needed, the potential issues to watch out for, and the hidden costs people often miss.

Planning to move a car from across the world can be a guessing game: securing insurance before registration, understanding CO2 bands for motor tax, the 12-month rule that could trigger a clawback… Bryan shares his experiences so you can better prepare to bring your car to Ireland.

You should note that this isn’t a service we offer at Expat Taxes, but it’s a topic that comes up all the time with clients so we wanted to share what we’ve learned from making the move ourselves!

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Transfer of Residency Relief for Vehicles: Expats returning to Ireland may be eligible to import their personal vehicle tax-free under the Transfer of Residency relief.
2. The VRT, VAT & Customs Cost Trap: Without relief, importing a car can trigger a hefty tax bill with customs duties, VAT, and Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT).
3. Documentation, Agents & Practical Logistics: Using a customs agent can significantly ease the paperwork burden.
4. Road Tax, Insurance & NCT Challenges: Finding the right insurer willing to cover an unregistered or left-hand drive car, ensuring NCT compliance & Ireland’s CO2 Road Tax bands.
5. Risks, Grey Areas & When Things Go Wrong: If you fall short of the qualifying criteria or Revenue disagrees with your valuation, you could face costly appeals or clawbacks.

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland.

Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Creating a Limited Incorporated Company in Ireland couldn’t be easier - but is it the best option for you?

In Part 2 of my chat with Paul Coffey of Coffey Accounts, we talk about the realities of starting a limited company in Ireland. There’s a lot to consider, from tax planning and pensions to avoiding the common misconceptions of what you can and definitely shouldn’t put through the company.

We cover why the structure of a company can bring real consistency (and sanity) to managing tax, the actual tax rates Irish business owners face (it’s not always the 12.5% headline rate) and why proper planning at year-end can make all the difference. We also talk about why buying assets through a company usually isn’t the win people think it is, and how Paul supports clients based on their stage, size and setup.

If you’re already incorporated or thinking about it and want to avoid the admin chaos, this episode shows you how an expert advisor like Paul Coffey can really help you.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Why limited companies offer more planning consistency: Paul explains how regular salary, payroll taxes, and pension contributions make financial planning simpler compared to sole tradership.
2. How directors can take money out tax-efficiently: From salary and pensions to tax-free vouchers and qualifying business expenses—Paul outlines the legitimate ways to access company funds without triggering surprise tax bills.
3. The real corporate tax rate for service companies: While 12.5% gets all the headlines, Paul breaks down why most service companies effectively pay a higher corporate tax rate due to surcharges.
4. Common myths around buying assets through a company: Stephanie and Paul tackle the popular (but risky) idea of putting property or cars through a company—and why it's usually not worth it.
5. How Paul Coffey supports clients based on their business needs: From quarterly oversight to full management accounts and payroll, Paul outlines the flexible support he offers based on a client’s size, goals, and transaction volume.

Get in touch with Paul Coffey and mention the Podcast when you do!

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 086 074 0880

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-coffey-05081535/

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Are you moving to Ireland with an existing business, freelancing for the first time, or wondering if it’s time to incorporate a limited company?

In this episode, I’m joined by Paul Coffey of Coffey Accounts—one of our go-to referral partners for freelancers and small business owners starting out (or levelling up) in Ireland.

Paul and I unpack the practical side of becoming a sole trader in Ireland, what’s involved in setting up a limited company, and why choosing the right structure from the start can save you a world of hassle later. We also chat through common pitfalls, commercial realities (not just the tax stuff), and why sole tradership might make perfect sense—until it doesn’t.

If you’re an expat or returning Irish passport holder thinking about working for yourself in Ireland, this episode will give you the clarity you need to take the next step. Part 2 coming soon, where we’ll get into director salaries, pensions, and planning for long-term growth.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Sole Trader vs Limited Company: Paul explains the core differences between running a business as a sole trader and incorporating a limited company in Ireland.
2. Setting Up as a Sole Trader in Ireland: They walk through the practical process of registering as a sole trader, what paperwork is involved, and why Ireland is considered relatively straightforward for getting started.
3. Commercial vs Tax Considerations: Beyond the tax implications, Paul highlights real-world reasons clients might need a company structure.
4. When and Why to Transition from Sole Trader to Limited Company: How and when a growing business might benefit from incorporation.
5. Planning Ahead: Shareholding, Spouses, and Long-Term Strategy: Stephanie and Paul talk about the importance of thinking beyond the first year—considering shareholding arrangements, family involvement in the business, and future tax reliefs when setting up a company from day one.

Get in touch with Paul Coffey and mention the Podcast when you do!

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 086 074 0880

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-coffey-05081535/

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

If you're an Irish/US dual citizen, have US Tax Obligations or planning a move to Ireland from the US, this is for you.

On Wednesday 7th May at 5pm GMT/12pm EST/9am PT, Stephanie Wickham will be running a live webinar alongside Jessica Beall of Beall Tax Consulting covering the Foundations of US and Irish tax domicile, residency, compliance, investing and anything else you need to know to get your tax covered.

For only €95 you get access to Stephanie Wickham and Jessica Beall's combined expertise in a session that is sure to make your journey to or from Ireland or America much simpler. And there's a Live Q&A if you have any specific questions not covered in the session.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot on the webinar: https://tinyurl.com/ExpatUS.

Episodes to prepare for the webinar:

1. Jeremy Strozer Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6aa84327-574e-46bd-972a-323e33638c8c/
2. Jeremy Strozer Part 2: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/7420e8dc-8e0b-45b4-9b3d-d28fcea7ce93/
3. Sean Kearney Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1790e7de-0b9d-43fc-9365-5c5f5eca8e57/
4. Sean Kearney Part 2: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/cf120c76-9816-4b8a-83eb-00835ece65da/

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Finding a Job and Driving are two of the biggest parts of expat life in Ireland to get right, and Jeremy Strozer has come out the other side of both with advice to share.

In this second half of my conversation with Jeremy Strozer—an expat, relocation guide, and founder of Expatsi.com—we get into the raw and relatable parts of settling in Ireland. If you’ve ever tried translating a US-style CV into the Irish job market or navigated a roundabout on the wrong side of the road while jet-lagged with hangry kids in the back, this one’s for you.

Jeremy opens up about the cultural curveballs that caught him off guard, the realities of finding a job as a newcomer, and why forming social circles in Ireland might take longer than expected—but is well worth the effort. We also unpack the joys and jolts of learning to drive on Irish roads, including how he accidentally gave a Dublin local a very expensive "hello."

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Breaking into the Irish Job Market as a Foreigner: The challenges of CV translation, cultural fit, and why international companies were the secret to Jeremy’s success.
2. Adjusting Your Communication Style: Why the “sell yourself” approach doesn’t always land in Ireland, and how to adapt to local expectations in interviews.
3. Building Your Tribe: Practical tips for finding community through hobbies, parenting, and happenstance connections (hint: coffee helps).
4. Learning to Drive on the Other Side: A cautionary tale involving jet lag, roundabouts, and a sideswiped car—and why waiting a day might save your nerves (and insurance premium).
5. The Emotional and Mental Shift of Moving Countries How your goals, identity, and plans evolve after relocating—and why that’s a good thing.

Contact Jeremy:

As an exclusive deal for Taxbytes For Expats listeners, you can book a Consultation Call with Jeremy for 20% off. Click the following link to book your consultation today: https://calendly.com/strozerj/ireland-consultation-clone.

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!