Dual citizens often face complex tax obligations, especially when earning income in multiple countries. The United States follows a citizenship-based taxation system, meaning U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must report their worldwide income to the IRS. However, many foreign countries also tax income earned within their jurisdictions, which can result in double taxation.
The Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) is a key tool that allows dual citizens to reduce or eliminate double taxation on foreign-earned income. This article explains how the Foreign Tax Credit works, eligibility criteria, and best practices for claiming it.
What Is the Foreign Tax Credit?
The Foreign Tax Credit is a U.S. tax benefit that offsets taxes paid to a foreign government against U.S. tax liability. It ensures that income is not taxed twice—once by the foreign country and again by the United States. This credit applies to both individual taxpayers and businesses that meet the eligibility requirements.
Key Features of the Foreign Tax Credit:
- Reduces U.S. tax liability on foreign-earned income
- Can be claimed using IRS Form 1116 (for individuals) or Form 1118 (for corporations)
- Available to U.S. citizens, resident aliens, and some dual-status taxpayers
- Limited to the lesser of actual foreign taxes paid or the U.S. tax owed on that foreign income
- Can be carried back one year or carried forward for up to 10 years if not fully utilized
Who Is Eligible for the Foreign Tax Credit?
To claim the Foreign Tax Credit, you must meet the following criteria:
- The tax must be a legal and actual foreign tax liability – You must have paid or accrued taxes to a recognized foreign country.
- The tax must be an income tax or tax in lieu of an income tax – Only foreign income taxes qualify, not sales tax, property tax, or value-added tax (VAT).
- The tax must be imposed on you – If your employer pays the foreign tax, you cannot claim it.
- You must have foreign-sourced income – Only income earned in a foreign country qualifies.
- The tax must not be refundable – If you receive a refund or tax benefit from the foreign country, you cannot claim a credit for that portion.
How Dual Citizens Can Use the Foreign Tax Credit
Step 1: Determine Your Foreign Tax Liability
Dual citizens who work, own property, or receive passive income (such as dividends or interest) in a foreign country should determine how much tax they owe to that country. Keep all foreign tax documents, such as tax returns and payment receipts, for accurate reporting.
Step 2: Choose Between Foreign Tax Credit and Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows U.S. taxpayers to exclude a certain amount of foreign-earned income from U.S. taxation. For 2024, the exclusion limit is $126,500 per qualifying taxpayer. However, FEIE does not reduce U.S. tax liability on passive income, such as capital gains or rental income.
Many dual citizens find that using the Foreign Tax Credit instead of FEIE is more beneficial, especially if their foreign tax rate is higher than their U.S. tax rate.
Step 3: Fill Out IRS Form 1116
To claim the Foreign Tax Credit, individuals must complete Form 1116, which includes:
- Country of foreign income source
- Type of income (wages, interest, dividends, etc.)
- Foreign taxes paid or accrued
- Calculation of the credit limit
Businesses or corporations use Form 1118 to claim FTC on corporate earnings.
Step 4: Apply the Foreign Tax Credit Calculation
The Foreign Tax Credit is limited to the lesser of:
- The actual foreign taxes paid, or
- The U.S. tax liability on that foreign income (calculated as a percentage of total taxable income)
If your foreign taxes exceed the limit, you can carry back the excess credit one year or carry forward for up to ten years to use in future tax years.
Step 5: Maintain Proper Documentation
The IRS requires proof of foreign taxes paid. Keep records of:
- Foreign tax returns
- Payment receipts
- Employer statements (if taxes were withheld at the source)
- Foreign bank statements reflecting tax payments
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming the Foreign Tax Credit
- Claiming the Credit on Non-Qualifying Taxes – Only income taxes or taxes in lieu of income tax qualify for the FTC.
- Failing to Report Foreign Income – The IRS requires full disclosure of worldwide income, even if you claim FTC.
- Not Choosing Between FTC and FEIE Properly – If you exclude foreign-earned income under FEIE, you cannot claim a Foreign Tax Credit on the same income.
- Overlooking Passive Income Taxation – Passive income, such as rental income, dividends, and interest, is not covered under FEIE but can be offset using the FTC.
Additional Considerations for Dual Citizens
Tax Treaties and Foreign Tax Credit
The U.S. has tax treaties with many countries to prevent double taxation. Some treaties provide relief beyond the standard Foreign Tax Credit, such as tax rate reductions or exemptions. Checking the specific tax treaty between the U.S. and your second country of citizenship can help you maximize tax benefits.
Reporting Foreign Bank Accounts
Dual citizens with foreign bank accounts or assets must comply with additional IRS reporting requirements, including:
- FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report) – Required if total foreign account balances exceed $10,000 at any time during the year.
- FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) Reporting – Applies to individuals with significant foreign financial assets.
Failure to report foreign accounts can result in heavy penalties, so compliance is essential.
Conclusion
For dual citizens, the Foreign Tax Credit is a valuable tool that helps prevent double taxation on foreign-earned income. By understanding eligibility requirements, tax treaties, and proper filing procedures, you can legally reduce your U.S. tax liability while complying with both countries’ tax laws.
Staying informed about tax regulations and consulting a tax professional can ensure you maximize your benefits while avoiding costly mistakes.
This article proides an in-depth guide for dual citizens navigating the complexities of foreign taxation. If you need a more personalized approach, consider speaking with a tax advisor who specializes in international tax matters.
