Hope you all had a nice weekend.

You all above for the most part think that you are so smart and can get someone smarter to help you avoid the IRS.

I believe the current IRS position is wrong. Does this make it right? Thats a laugh!

The funny thing is Rotor; he was the first to call me "Forrest".... good luck bud.

The "Forrest" description applies only if you're filing returns based solely on internet advice. Eventually the term will be replaced by "convicted felon" and "bankrupt". You, HotPot, are apparently doing it right. :)

In fact the overwater argument applies only at the start and end of your 330 day absence; IRS interpretations of such forays during other periods have been problematic. Yes, appeals have been successful, but every other part of your exclusion must be proper. Get a competent and experienced tax guy/gal to check your data and file your return.

One question is how many people who are audited for this write "pilot" or "foreign pilot" as their job title on the 1040? I wouldn't, under any circumstances, write "pilot" as my job title. Make up something that keeps you under the radar.


TP

There is NO requirement in the statutes to list any occupation. I have always answered N/A. However, when the IRS decides to harass you, that line will only help them if collection or enforcement action is needed, so why give them a head start? Education is key!

When obtained from proper sources, absolutely! I've said it before and I'll say it again, these sites are good sources for interview tips, QOL questions, operational procedures etc. that is what we are knowledgable of, when it comes to taxes, talk to a tax professional.

Dude, care to share your CPA,s info?

Thanks in advance. If you're unable, no probs, I'm sure there is someone else that can help.

There are 5 of us that flew at the same legacy carrier and foreign carrier at the same time. Of the 5, 2 so far, have already been audited.

Luckily the overwater rule had very little effect on us. We flew almost exclusively over land.

The first one to go through it used a professional accounting firm that claimed expertise in expat tax law. They fought it and won, but he said it was painful.

I would not try to hide from the IRS these days. Not divulging your occupation is not going to help when they look at other inputs that can red flag your return.

I fly inside the Great Wall for a reason. NOT by choice, thats for sure.

I hope this info is useful. Again, I have confirmed this with the best tax accountants.

Anyone have advice on a good ex-pat tax adviser? Preferably one that specializes in airline pilots?

Turbo Tax works like a charm! You can complete your tax return for free, but you will have to pay the fee if you want to file.