FAQ – US Taxes for Expats & Military in Europe

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  • I file in all states except Oregon. I also check whether you need to file at all—especially if you come from a no income tax state in the USA (like Texas, Florida, Nevada).
  • If you’re married to a non-U.S. citizen, you can still choose the best filing status (Married Filing Jointly or Married Filing Separately). I’ll advise which option saves you the most.
  • If your home state has no income tax (like Texas or Florida), you may not need to file a state return. I’ll check your residency rules carefully to make sure you’re not paying unnecessary state taxes.
  • The IRS offers streamlined filing options for expats behind on taxes. I’ll guide you through catching up safely and avoiding penalties, while making sure all credits and exclusions are applied.
  • I work with service members and expats across Europe. Whether you’re in Germany, Italy, Belgium, or another NATO country, I’ll make sure your U.S. tax return is filed correctly.

  • The IRS usually issues most refunds in about three weeks after your return is accepted, but a few things can slow it down:

    • A mismatch or error on your return

    • Missing or incomplete information

    • Identity-verification checks

    • Additional review of credits (like the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Credit)

    • Paper-filed returns or mailed-in documents

    If the IRS needs more info, they may send you a letter. Until then, the best way to see what’s going on is to use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool and check your tax refund status there.

  • At USA Tax, we focus on helping you keep more of what you earn—legally and strategically. To aim for a bigger refund (or lower tax bill) next year, you can:

    • Adjust your withholding using an updated Form W-4

    • Make sure you’re claiming all eligible credits and deductions

    • Track deductible expenses during the year instead of scrambling at tax time

    • Talk with a tax pro before big life changes (marriage, moving, new job, side business, etc.)

    We can review your current situation and build a plan so next year’s refund looks better.

  • I’ll help you decide between Married Filing Jointly (MFJ) or Married Filing Separately (MFS). The choice affects credits, deductions, and sometimes state tax obligations.
  • Yes. My pricing is transparent and flat-rate, based on your package (Simple, Family, or Business) + $49 per state (if required). No hidden fees.

  • When you e-file, the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool will typically move through a few stages, such as:

    • Return received – the IRS has your return and is processing it

    • Refund approved – your refund has been approved and a date is set

    • Refund sent – the money has been sent to your bank or mailed as a check

    If a message is confusing, a USA Tax professional can help you interpret it and decide whether you need to take any action.

  • No. U.S. military members file a federal tax return the same way as in the U.S., but with additional rules for overseas pay, housing, and PCS moves. I specialize in U.S. military tax prep in Germany.
  • Yes. Contractors, freelancers, and self-employed overseas often need to file Schedule C and self-employment tax (Schedule SE). I’ll handle everything, including business deductions and credits.

  • The IRS refund tracker updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight. That means checking your status more than once a day won’t show anything new.

    If your status isn’t changing, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong—it may just still be processing.

  • For most accurate, e-filed returns with direct deposit, the IRS says refunds are typically issued within about 21 days after they accept your return.

    It can take longer if:

    • The return is selected for additional review

    • There are errors or missing information

    • You filed by mail or requested a paper check

    You can always confirm your current tax refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool.

  • Military pay is generally taxable by the U.S., even while abroad. However, special rules apply for combat pay, PCS moves, and overseas housing allowances. I specialize in U.S. military tax filings in Germany and can ensure you don’t miss benefits.