How does Zenith's expat tax process work?

Zenith Financial has designed a streamlined, fully remote process specifically for US expats and cross-border filers. Our process is built around four simple stages that take you from initial consultation to filed return, regardless of where you are in the world.

Stage 1 — Free Consultation: We begin with a complimentary consultation to understand your situation. We will discuss where you live and work, your income sources, any foreign financial accounts, and your filing history. Based on this conversation, we provide a clear quote for our services with no hidden fees.

Stage 2 — Document Collection: After you engage us, we set up your secure client portal where you can upload documents, complete your tax organizer, and communicate with your assigned tax preparer. Our tax organizer is designed specifically for expats and walks you through the information we need, including foreign income details, account balances, housing expenses, and travel history. We use bank-level encryption (256-bit SSL) and SOC 2 compliant systems to protect your data.

Stage 3 — Preparation and Review: Your dedicated Enrolled Agent or CPA prepares your return using our specialized cross-border tax preparation platform. We analyze your situation to determine the optimal strategy (FEIE vs. FTC, treaty positions, housing exclusion, etc.) and prepare all required forms, including international information returns like FBAR, Form 8938, Form 2555, and Form 1116. Once prepared, we provide your complete return for review through the client portal, along with a summary of key positions and any tax owed or refund expected.

Stage 4 — Filing and Support: After you review and approve your return, we e-file it with the IRS on your behalf. We file your FBAR through the BSA E-Filing System. We provide your filed return documents through the secure portal and remain available for any follow-up questions, IRS correspondence, or amendments needed throughout the year.

Our entire process can be completed remotely from any country, and most returns are completed within 2-3 weeks of receiving all documents.