Federal Tax Filing for Non-US Residents

It depends on your LLC structure. Single-member LLCs file Schedule C with a personal return, while multi-member LLCs file Form 1065 (partnership return) with Schedule K-1s for each member. All foreign-owned LLCs must also file Form 5472 to report transactions with foreign owners. We determine the correct forms based on your LLC type and prepare everything for you.

Form 5472 is an information return required by the IRS for any US LLC that has a foreign owner. It reports transactions between the LLC and its foreign owner, including capital contributions, loans, and distributions. Failure to file Form 5472 carries a $25,000 penalty per form, per year. We include Form 5472 preparation in every filing.

A single-member LLC is treated as a disregarded entity and reports income on Schedule C attached to a personal return. The filing deadline is April 15. A multi-member LLC files Form 1065 as a partnership, with K-1s issued to each member. The filing deadline is March 15. Both types require Form 5472 when foreign-owned. We review your LLC structure and file the correct forms.

Yes. Even if your LLC had zero revenue during the tax year, the IRS still requires you to file. A zero-return filing reports no income or expenses and satisfies your annual filing obligation. Foreign-owned LLCs must also submit Form 5472 regardless of activity. Our $349 zero-return plan covers this requirement.

We need your LLC formation documents, EIN confirmation letter, bank statements for the tax year, records of any income and expenses, and member information (for multi-member LLCs). If your books are not organized, our cleanup bookkeeping service will categorize all transactions and prepare the financial statements needed for filing.

Multi-member LLCs (Form 1065) are due March 15. Single-member LLCs (Schedule C) are due April 15. Both deadlines can be extended by 6 months if needed. We recommend starting the process at least 6 weeks before your deadline to allow time for bookkeeping cleanup and review.

Cleanup bookkeeping organizes your financial records for the tax year. This includes categorizing all bank and credit card transactions, preparing a profit and loss statement, generating a balance sheet, reconciling accounts, and performing year-end close. Clean books are required for an accurate tax return and are included in our $549 full filing plan.

Yes. Your LLC can deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses regardless of where you live. Common deductions include software subscriptions, contractor payments, marketing costs, office supplies, and professional services. We review your expenses to identify all legitimate deductions and ensure they comply with IRS rules.

Late filing penalties can add up quickly. For Form 1065, the penalty is $220 per partner per month (up to 12 months). Form 5472 carries a $25,000 penalty for late or incomplete filing. We can file for an extension before the deadline to avoid penalties. If you are already past due, contact us and we will help you get compliant as quickly as possible.

It depends on whether your LLC earns income that is "effectively connected" with a US trade or business. Many non-resident founders with single-member LLCs that operate entirely outside the US may not owe federal income tax, but they are still required to file informational returns including Form 5472. We help you understand your specific tax obligations based on your situation.