What a both-country return, an FBAR, an ITIN application, a streamlined catch-up, a dual-status return, and expatriation work cost, plus how to choose a cross-border accountant and whether a paid assessment is worth it.
15 guides, each written by a CPA licensed in the US and Canada.
Alberta's combined top marginal rate is 48%, compared to 53.5% in Ontario and BC, 53.3% in Quebec, and 54% in Nova Scotia.
Cross-BorderFlorida is the single most common landing spot for Canadians leaving Canada, and the reason people give is almost always the same one: no state income tax.
Cross-BorderMontreal's cross-border tax picture includes Revenu Quebec's separate TP-1 return, QST instead of HST, QPP instead of CPP, and French-language filings.
Cross-BorderToronto's cross-border tax picture includes Ontario's 53.5% top rate, the highest probate fees in Canada, a double land transfer tax.
Cross-BorderVancouver's cross-border tax picture includes BC's 53.5% top rate, a 20% foreign buyer tax, speculation and vacancy taxes, and the Seattle tech corridor.
Cross-BorderWhat a cross-border tax accountant actually handles, how to tell a real specialist from a generalist, what the fees look like.
Cross-BorderCross-border returns cost more than domestic ones. Here is what drives the price, what the ranges look like, and what you should ask before hiring.
Cross-BorderA dual-status US return typically costs $1,500 to $2,500 to prepare, several times a normal 1040, because it's two returns in one, can't be e-filed, and turns on a residency date.
Cross-BorderThe IRS charges nothing for the ITIN itself, but the W-7 preparation, CAA certification, and the required tax return add up to $1,000 to $3,000+ for most Canadians.
Cross-BorderCross-border bookkeeping for a Canadian with US income runs $300 to $2,000/month depending on the number of entities, currencies, and reporting requirements in both countries.
Cross-BorderRenouncing US citizenship costs $450 at the State Department since April 2026. For someone already current on US filings, the tax side, a final dual-status return and Form 8854, typically runs $3,500 to $7,500.
Cross-BorderFiling the FBAR yourself costs nothing. A preparer typically adds $85 to $150 a year to file it with your return. Late FBARs for several years cost more, and the penalty for skipping one is up to $16,536.
Cross-BorderA paid assessment is worth it when your file holds an unknown that changes the price or the plan. If you already know which returns you need, skip it.
Cross-BorderMost Canadian streamlined files cost US$2,500 to $4,500 in preparer fees, and a typical employee file owes $0 US tax. Covers treaty provisions, foreign.
Cross-BorderA $1,200 TFSA quote usually means protective Form 3520 and 3520-A filings for every account. Here's what that work involves and when the number is fair.