International
Don’t get lost in translation.
America has often been described as “the land of opportunity.” The possibilities for doing business or profiting from investments in the United States are nearly endless.
On the other hand, the U.S. tax system is the most notoriously difficult in the world. Businesses or individuals from other countries who want to establish a foothold here (“in-bound”) typically find it incredibly confusing. It’s no better for U.S. citizens and U.S.-based businesses seeking to live or expand abroad (“out-bound”); Uncle Sam will have his due no matter what. Whether you’re in-bound or out-bound, a business or an individual, the most valuable tools at your disposal are knowledge and information – preferably acquired before you make any big moves or investments.
Key Considerations
Compliance.
Understanding the requirements of various U.S. taxing authorities can be tricky. In-bound clients are often baffled by the multiple layers of taxation, while out-bound clients have trouble sorting out what is subject to U.S. taxation and what can be offset by taxes paid abroad.
Structure.
Whether in-bound or out-bound, how you structure your business, real estate purchase or other investment is critically important
and can make a tremendous difference in your tax liabilities, among other things. You must consider whether to form an entity (corporation, LLC, trust, etc.) in the country where you will be operating or investing, create a separate holding entity in your country of origin or simply own the business or investment as an individual or as your current entity. Each of these options is suitable for specific circumstances and objectives and must be carefully evaluated for both current and potential longer-term risks and opportunities.
Team.
Almost without thinking about it, we all rely on a range of people and advisors to assist us with financial and business matters.
Accountants, attorneys, bankers, insurance and risk management specialists, investment advisors and real estate professionals all provide invaluable services. It is critical to build the right team to support you as you extend your business and financial interests across international boundaries. There will be nuances to consider and bureaucratic hurdles to overcome; you need your team to help you through these potential obstacles with a minimum of time, fuss and expense.
Expertise
At Singer & Falk, we help clients untangle the complexities of international taxation and finance.
Our job is to help you make sense of a seemingly mind-boggling array of rules, regulations and requirements so you can focus on accomplishing our objectives. For out-bound clients, we provide the guidance needed to stay in compliance with U.S. rules and avoid unnecessarysanctions. When in-bound clients come to us, they don’t always have a clear idea of what they should be asking. We help them sort things through and break them down into meaningful concepts and actionable items so they can build solid foundations as they enter the U.S. market. Our work involves tremendous personal attention. We help clients structure their businesses and assets in the most advantageous ways possible, assemble local support teams, collaborate across international boundaries and ensure compliance with tax and other regulations. Contact us when you’re considering adding an international component to your business and financial interests.
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