39. There are SEVERE penalties for tax non-compliance. Here’s how to avoid them | Ask An Expert with Ishali Patel

We're The Brits In America

An accountant moves to the US in the 1980s with a portfolio of non-U.S. mutual funds (classified as PFICs under US tax law). Decades later and the portfolio has grown significantly, but is never reported under the US PFIC rules. Assuming it was taxed like a standard investment, the accountant has blindly walked into an 80% penalty, lost to taxes and interest. This cautionary tale highlights the critical need for early, specialised cross-border tax advice. Thankfully, we’ve got it here. Richard Taylor is joined for this week’s Ask An Expert by Ishali Patel, Senior Director at Trowbridge Professional Corporation

They explore key issues like informational returns (FBAR, Form 3520), the PFIC regime for non-U.S. investments, and double-taxation risks when working across states. If you do a couple of days work a week in another state you could be taxed twice! It’s bonkers, but need-to-know stuff. Ishali also shares insights on avoiding costly penalties and managing UK pensions under US rules.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.