US & International Tax Accountant in Hong Kong
American taxation service in Hong Kong for US expats and anyone exposed to the US tax system. If you are a US citizen or green-card holder living, working or investing here, your US filing obligations follow you, and we handle them so they stay clean. Alongside your US compliance, we handle international tax planning for globally mobile individuals.
- American taxation service in Hong Kong
- Who we help in Hong Kong
- Two things every American here runs into
- Why choose us as your US tax preparer
- Our US tax expertise includes
- Just some of our US tax services
- Questions we answer every day
- Common challenges & opportunities
- A few reasons to choose us
- Firm successes
- What our clients say
- Our Hong Kong office
American Taxation Service in Hong Kong for US Expats and Those Exposed to the US Tax System
Our clients agree that we provide the best US tax service in Hong Kong for Americans working here. We are an American company that provides American taxes services to Americans living abroad as well as everyone exposed to the US taxation system.
We are a certified IRS tax preparer and offer Reduced Rate Consultations for Americans abroad who want help filing their taxes with the IRS or need advice on how to pay less in income taxes.
Hayden T Joseph does business as (DBA) Advanced American Tax. Advanced American Tax (a member of Moores Rowland International) provides a wide range of services for Americans living in Hong Kong as well as US expats who have exposure to the American tax system, including individuals, companies, and trusts. Reduced Rate Consultations on filing with the IRS and information on how to maximize your deductions are available.
Whether you are searching for a dependable Hong Kong tax consultant or the kind of US tax services Hong Kong Americans can trust year after year, HTJ.tax is built for exactly this.
If the US Tax System Reaches You Here, so Do We
Being American in Hong Kong doesn't pause your US taxes. These are the people we work with most.
Two Things Every American Here Runs Into
Your US Taxes Follow You to Hong Kong
The US taxes its citizens and green-card holders on worldwide income, wherever they live. Moving to Hong Kong doesn't switch that off, your US return is still due every year, on top of anything Hong Kong expects. We keep both sides aligned so you are never taxed twice on the same income.
It's the Reporting That Catches People Out
Beyond the return itself, US persons in Hong Kong often owe FBARs for local bank accounts, FATCA (Form 8938) disclosures, and PFIC reporting on certain funds. Missing these is where the real penalties live, so we map your full reporting footprint before anything is filed.
Why Choose Us As Your Preferred US Tax Preparer and US Tax Consultant in Hong Kong?
Deductions and Allowances for the US Expatriates in HK
Expatriates may be eligible for US tax deductions and allowances when deducting moving expenses, reducing taxes withheld from their compensation, and taking advantage of foreign earned income exclusions.
We will review your situation with you and make recommendations on the best way to reduce your tax liability.
100% Accurate US Tax Compliance
When you're a US citizen living abroad (eg. Hong Kong), it's essential to comply with the complicated tax obligations of both countries, which is difficult for most people. Consequently, they often find themselves in trouble due to this complexity and are penalized because they didn't take care of their requirements from the beginning. HTJ will ensure that you are compliant and avoid any potential penalties.
Wide Range of Tax Services for Everyone Exposed to the US Tax System
HTJ is also here for those who have no intention of living in America again, but still require tax help or advice about their exposure to American taxes. If you work remotely from Hong Kong (e.g., as a freelancer) or just make money in American dollars (e.g., through currency exchange), then your income will be subject to American taxation laws even if all other aspects of your life reside outside America's borders, and HTJ can handle this complexity on your behalf with ease!
Income Tax and Self-Employment Tax Assistance for US Expats in Hong Kong
HTJ provides tax assistance to both employees of American companies or freelancers who work remotely from Hong Kong on a project basis as well as individuals receiving income through currency exchange. We can help you with your American tax obligations and ensure you are compliant with the IRS.
Utilizing Our US Tax Services Will Save You Time and Effort
There are many reasons to choose HTJ.tax for your American tax service in Hong Kong, but our main focus is on reducing the stress and time involved with filing taxes for Americans abroad.
We're a great option if you need to deal with your US taxes but don't have time to do it all yourself. We will explain each and every step in detail so you know what's going on, and we'll work hard at making sure everything is accurate for an optimal outcome.
We Are Among the Most Knowledgeable and Trusted US Tax Service providers in Hong Kong
While our office in Hong Kong is relatively recent, we've been providing our US tax consultancy services to Americans living abroad (including HK) for a long time, and we're the go-to company when it comes to filing taxes with the IRS.
Our Rates are Competitive and Our Service is Personalized to Your Needs
While we aren't actually trying to be the cheapest US tax preparer in Hong Kong, HTJ.tax offers competitive rates as well as personalized service for your needs.
We Guarantee 100% Confidentiality and Discretion at All Times
Most of our clients are high net-worth individuals that demand complete confidentiality and discretion. You can count on us to keep your information private, so don't worry about the potential for embarrassment or legal implications in regards to any sensitive matters we might have to discuss with you.
We Have Multiple Offices All Over the World So We Can Assist Your US Tax Needs Wherever You Go
Based on the needs of our clients and their geographical locations, we have started to invest in offices all over the world. Some of our locations include Singapore (main office), Portugal, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Spain and, well, Hong Kong.
We Are a Company That Offers US Tax Advice for All Levels of Complexity, Not Just Basic Accounting Services
Our assistance goes beyond just helping you with your tax returns. We also offer help on topics such as US estate planning, asset protection, and immigration law matters for Americans living abroad.
HTJ is a full-service provider of USA tax requirements for US citizens living in HK as well as those in Hong Kong who are exposed to the US taxation system.
Our Team is Composed of Professional US Tax Accountants Based in Hong Kong Who Know How to Handle All Your Needs
Our staff is made up of qualified US Tax Accountants. They have years of experience dealing with the complexities that arise from this special situation and will work hard to understand your needs so they can provide you with a tailored solution that is 100% guaranteed.
Our team members are experts in US tax law and have helped thousands of clients over the years. We know that this can be a daunting task, but we'll do our best to make it as painless as possible for you.
Local Knowledge – We Know How to Help You Navigate Through All the Rules and Regulations That Apply to American Expats Living in Hong Kong
To guarantee full compliance it is mandatory to know both the US and Hong Kong tax laws. Here at HTJ.tax, we are dedicated to serve you as an American overseas and ensure that your tax obligations in both countries have been met.
We Have a Team of Qualified and Experienced American Tax Advisers Who Specialize in Helping Americans Living Abroad
Our team is composed of US tax accountants based in Hong Kong. They have years of experience dealing with the complexities that arise from this special situation and will work hard to understand your needs so they can provide you with a tailored solution that is 100% guaranteed.
We have your back (no matter what may come up when it comes to taxes).
We Are Conveniently Located in Hong Kong
While we are primarily an online business and do not encourage walk-ins, we do have an office in Hong Kong. Our US tax consultancy services are always available, but if you need to meet with someone face-to-face that's not a problem either.
You Can Rely on Us to Provide You with Quality Service Throughout Your US Tax Return Process
We would be happy to provide references from our existing clients in Hong Kong.
We Speak English so There is No Need to Worry About Language Barriers
While our multi-national team is located in different parts of the world, we all speak English so you can rest assured that there will be no miscommunication when it comes to your taxes.
If you are looking for a US tax accountant or US tax consulting firm in Hong Kong, then by now you should know that we are one of the best options.
Let's arrange a free call and discuss your needs.
Compliance and Consulting, Handled Together
US Tax Compliance (HK)
Individual clients come to us with complex, multi-jurisdiction tax issues related to cross-border employment and investment opportunities. Similar to an interpreter or guide who helps travelers understand the language and customs of a particular country, we explain tax concepts and laws that are foreign to our clients. We prepare U.S. federal and state income tax returns for U.S. expatriates, foreign nationals and individuals with international financial interests.
US Tax Consulting (HK)
Our international tax consulting expertise includes analysis of tax treaties, sourcing of income, and reporting of foreign bank accounts, as well as foreign corporations, partnerships and trusts. As consultants, we help individual clients develop cost-effective strategies, propose solutions and prepare individual tax projections. We also work closely with our clients' attorneys and other advisors to provide comprehensive advice.
Just Some of Our US Tax Services in Hong Kong
We have significant experience assisting our clients with complicated, international tax issues. The following list represents some of the areas in which we have provided both planning and compliance services for our clients:
- US shareholders of foreign corporations
- US partners in foreign partnerships
- US grantors and beneficiaries of foreign trusts
- US shareholders of Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICS)
- Reporting for Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBARs)
- Blocked income reporting for deferral of tax in currency restriction situations
- Donations to foreign charities by US private foundations via expenditure responsibility grants
- Income tax treaty analysis for various issues including determination of residency, re-sourcing of income to avoid double taxation, reduction or exemption of tax
- Determination of residency for income tax purposes for foreign nationals including optimization of elections for first and last year of residency
- Social Security tax implications to compensation of foreign nationals and US expatriates including application and analysis of Totalization agreements
- Foreign tax credit optimization including analysis of paid versus accrued methods and maximizing foreign source income
- Optimization for US expatriates including analysis of foreign tax credit versus foreign earned income exclusions
- Reporting of foreign rental properties including proper depreciation methods and treatment of rental of a principal residence
- Reporting and planning for US real property interests by nonresidents including applications for reduction/exemption from withholding on sale proceeds
- Reporting and planning for nonresidents with US investments or US effectively-connected income
- State residency and domicile issues for foreign nationals and US expatriates
- Reporting gifts and inheritances from nonresidents
- Consulting to employers of international assignees relating to tax equalization policy development and application, tax planning for international assignments including coordination with tax advisors in local jurisdictions, compensation structuring, payroll reporting and employee education and tax return preparation
- Determination of residency for US citizens in US possessions
Given the uniqueness of the U.S. Tax Code, we are perfectly positioned to assist American Citizens, American Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) and American companies who want to expand internationally with:
- Incorporation and corporate structuring
- International tax returns
- Work passes across the region
- Corporate secretarial and full accounting services
For American Citizens, American Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) and American companies already in Asia and Europe, we can assist with U.S. tax issues including:
- US Tax Amnesty – both Offshore Voluntary Disclosure (OVDP) and Streamlined
- FATCA compliance including Form 8966, W-8 Ben-E and entity analysis
- Reporting of foreign companies, partnerships and foreign trusts
- Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs)
- Foreign Bank Account Reporting (FBARs)
- Pre-immigration Tax Planning
- Cross border tax planning
- Expat Salary negotiation
- Corporate structuring
- ITINs (U.S. Tax IDs)
- Ordinary 1040s
More on the Moores Rowland Asia network
With economies rather stagnating in much of the western world outside the US, a new dawn has broken in Asia raising fresh hopes that having learned the bitter lessons of fiscal prudence the region is finally ready to fulfil its promise to make this century 'the Asian century'. True there is much to do, but the introduction of major political and economic reforms across the region augurs well for the future, particularly in the medium term, especially as a new more vibrant leadership has come to the fore. That is not to say everything will be plain sailing, of course, but the prospects for a prosperous journey look fair indeed. To help guide you along the way, the Moores Rowland firms across Asia combine global knowledge and best practices with core Asian values to produce seasoned yet individually tailored courses of action to best suit your needs.
Moores Rowland Asia firms provide a range of professional services with a focus on audit, tax, accounting, payroll, risk advisory, IFRS, restructuring and transaction support. Beyond these, our member firms also offer a wide range of specialist services from expatriate advice to human resource consulting. Moores Rowland clients are increasingly looking beyond their national borders for new opportunities. The close relationships within the network mean that clients can easily be connected to a like-minded firm of professionals in another country, that they can be assured will have their business interests at heart – no matter what services are required or where they are needed.
Typical American Taxation Questions in Hong Kong
Could you help me understand the options of reducing my tax bill?
How do my Hong Kong financial statements affect my filing?
Is there anything else that I need to report to the IRS?
If I'm an American staying in Hong Kong for a short period of time, does it affect my taxes?
Our US tax advisors in our HK office can provide you with all the necessary guidance and help whether you prefer a DIY approach or you'd rather leave it to an experienced US tax accountant and save your precious time. Whether you're living in or moving to HK, you will most certainly need to obtain a solid understanding of both local and international rules (like double taxation treaties) that are applicable to expats in Hong Kong. Or, as an alternative, you may put that burden on our shoulders. Tax filing for US citizens living abroad (including HK) is our expertise and we'd gladly help.
Common US Expat Tax Challenges and Opportunities in Hong Kong
Whether you are considering US expat tax advisory services or just browsing the web, here's what you need to know: Americans and US Green Card holders living in HK are required by law to file a US tax return each year.
You might be subject to FBAR and/or FATCA reporting requirements.
Many of our clients can lower their US tax bills and avoid dual taxation with certain tax strategies (like foreign earned income exclusion or foreign tax credit). Depending on your situation, different strategies might fit you better.
Also, there are numerous rebates and incentives available to you that you might not be aware of.
A Few Reasons to Choose Us as Your Preferred American Expat Taxation Service in HK
- Fully compliant and admitted to practice before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- ○ Listed Accounting Firm in the IRS directory (searchable database)
- ○ Listed US Tax Preparer in the US Commerce Department website
- ○ Listed on the US Embassy website as one of the recommended US Tax Preparers in Singapore
- Decades of international tax experience with the primary focus on US expat taxes
- Offices in different countries so there are always team members available in your time zone
- We've got offices in Singapore, UAE, Portugal, UK, Spain and Hong Kong
A Track Record US Expats Trust
In Their Own Words
Derren has made my life easier as a US expat living overseas. I haven't lived in the US since the 80's, and have run businesses in France and Singapore. Derren has helped eliminate a great deal of burdens and worries for me.
I highly recommend Derren. I have been his client for a number of years now and as an expat in Singapore have relied on his professional and timely service. He will answer immediately any question you have regarding taxes no matter how complicated (or simple) and help you navigate the process in a seamless fashion. A real professional!
Excellent service from Derren, he answered all questions quickly and thoughtfully pertaining my situation. I would highly recommend him for tax returns to the USA! Thanks again.
Derren Joseph were able to help us in our US Tax Compliance performing a detailed review of the last 9 years ensuring that all requirements of the IRS are fully satisfied. He is very helpful to our queries irregardless of the day and time. A customer service that you cannot find to any of the consultant out there... Highly recommended not only because of his credentials but also because of his professional work ethics.
Derren was very highly recommended by business friends to solve my very complicated US Tax problem. From our very first meeting he was friendly and easy to understand... His knowledge of IRS requirements and regulations is supreme. He produced the final results on IRS forms much sooner than expected. I highly recommend Derren for any US Tax matters.
I worked with Derren for my US personal tax return after a friend referred him. I found him to be very knowledgable about any issue asked, and equally important for me, to be very promt with responses. His was a very high quality work with excellent customer service. I used other tax services in the past and can say with confidence that Derren's was a grade above.
An Office in Hong Kong, a Team Online
HTJ is headquartered in Singapore and part of the Moores Rowland International, so your file is handled by people who work this market every day. We are primarily an online practice and don't encourage walk-ins, but the Hong Kong presence is real, meetings are by appointment.
Wherever you sit in the world, the fastest way in is the chat, it reaches the whole team at once.
By appointment only. Start a chat to arrange a meeting.
Our International Tax Service Has Been in Practice Since 1980
Led by Derren Hayden Joseph, Managing Partner
- Chair, Tax Working Group — Moores Rowland International
- Harvard University, Comparative Tax Program
- Admitted to practice before the IRS
- IRS Certified Acceptance Agent (ITINs)
2,000+ reviews across 20 countries·30+ offices on 5 continents·In practice since 1980
Member of, and accredited by
Member of the AICPA
Member firm of Moores Rowland International
Member of the Florida Institute of CPAs
Member firm of ITPA
Member firm of IBSA
Member of the Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers
Authorized IRS E-file provider
Member firm of TTN
Member of AmCham Singapore
Member of AmCham Dubai
Member of AmCham Philippines
Independently verified on Google — every office, every review.
Sort Your US Taxes in Hong Kong, Properly
Tell us your situation, US citizen or green-card holder, employed, self-employed or investing. A specialist reviews it and tells you honestly how HTJ can help.
Talk to a specialist