Do you charge extra for state tax returns?

Yes, state tax returns are priced separately from our federal tax preparation packages. State returns start at $150 per state, per year, and the exact fee depends on the complexity of your state situation.

Standard state returns for expats are typically straightforward — most involve filing a part-year resident return for the state you left or a nonresident return if you still have income sourced to a particular state. These are typically at the base $150 price point.

More complex state situations that may require higher fees include: states with complex departure rules like California, New York, or Virginia; multi-state filings when you have income sourced to several states; part-year returns with complex allocation of income; state returns involving state-specific credits or adjustments for foreign income; and situations where you need to formally establish non-residency or contest a state's residency claim.

Not all expats need to file state returns. If your last US residence was in a state with no income tax (Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, or Wyoming), you have no state filing obligation. We assess your state filing requirements during the consultation and include the state return in your quote if applicable.

Some states offer special provisions for expats that can reduce or eliminate state tax liability. For example, some states allow you to claim the FEIE at the state level, while others have their own rules for foreign income. We ensure you take advantage of any available state-level benefits.

If you are unsure whether you need to file a state return, we include a state residency analysis as part of our consultation at no additional charge. Many expats mistakenly continue filing state returns they do not need, or fail to file in states that still claim them. We clarify your obligations and provide guidance on severing state tax residency when appropriate.