Originally Posted by
bluejuice
It isn't possible to put a number on deductions without it being arbitrary. The 148k number was a generalized number for a specific tax bracket based upon expected earnings on widebody FO's in HKG. That's all.
You are absolutely correct that deductions will change everything, hence why the generalization. I wanted to point out to people that the tax equalization is not as bad as portrayed and can be very effective if used correctly.
In my opinion, you can't expect Fedex or ALPA to give you any advice regarding your personal tax situation because it is simply not possible to give you an accurate picture due to the millions of variables involved on a case-by-case basis. I view any tax advice from ALPA or Fedex as a complete liability.
Bullsh!t. I am not asking for advice I am asking for facts. The union hired an accountant to explain tax equalization to them. All I am asking for is two sample tax returns, lets make them 5 year FO and 10 year Capt. Give the Capt some outside income for some variety. Now show me what they will pay in HKG and CDG. Now show me what they will pay in MEM (not that I dont trust PWC). Most of us can interpret the returns and apply them to our personal situation. The smart ones will take it to their CPA for a second opinion. Individually we should not have to pay for the same advice the union already paid for.
This should have been mandatory information provided to the pilot group prior to the vote let alone the bid. But once the NC gained HKG as a base they thought their work was done and the MEC agreed.
Lines we don't need no stinkin lines.