KNOWLEDGE BASE

Common Questions.

Direct answers to the most pressing tax-immigration concerns.

Green Card & Visa Risk

Can an IRS tax lien affect my Green Card application?

Yes. While tax debt alone isn't an automatic denial, a Federal Tax Lien is a public record. USCIS agents may view an unresolved lien as a "Public Charge" issue or a sign of "Poor Moral Character" during naturalization. We prioritize clearing liens to protect your residency path.

Penalty Abatement

Why is the Form 5472 penalty so high ($25,000)?

The IRS uses the $25,000 automated penalty as a tool to ensure transparency for foreign-owned US corporations. It is not based on how much tax you owe, but rather on the "failure to file" the information return. We have a high success rate in abating these via "First Time Abate" or "Reasonable Cause."

Licensing & Practice

What is the difference between an Enrolled Agent and a CPA?

CPAs are licensed by individual states and often specialize in general accounting or auditing. Enrolled Agents are licensed by the US Federal Government (Department of the Treasury) and specialize exclusively in taxation and IRS representation.

Foreign Assets / FBAR

Do I have to disclose my Indian NRE/NRO accounts to the IRS?

If the aggregate value of your foreign bank accounts exceeded $10,000 at any time during the year, you are legally required to file an FBAR (FinCEN Form 114). Failure to do so can result in penalties starting at $10,000 per violation.

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