What is the Total Foreign Income Exclusion?
The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows U.S. citizens and resident aliens living abroad to exclude a portion of their foreign-earned income from U.S. federal income tax. This exclusion is designed to prevent double taxation on income earned in a foreign country.
Eligibility for the Exclusion
To qualify for the FEIE, you must meet one of the following tests:
- Bona Fide Residence Test: You must be a resident of a foreign country for an entire tax year.
- Physical Presence Test: You must be physically present in a foreign country for at least 330 full days during any 12-month period that includes the tax year.
Exclusion Amount for 2025
For tax year 2025, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion amount is $130,000. This amount is adjusted annually for inflation. The exclusion applies to wages, salaries, and other compensation earned for services performed in a foreign country.
How to Claim the Exclusion
To claim the exclusion, you must file Form 2555, Exclusion of Foreign Earned Income, with your Form 1040. You must also provide details about your foreign tax home, employment or business abroad, and the period of your residence or physical presence in the foreign country.
Important Notes
- The exclusion does not apply to passive income such as dividends, interest, or royalties.
- You cannot exclude income that is already exempt under a tax treaty or other provision.
- Even if you exclude foreign earned income, you may still be required to file Form 1116 to claim a foreign tax credit for taxes paid to a foreign government.
Reporting Requirements
When completing Form 2555, ensure you complete all applicable sections that help determine your eligibility and calculate the exclusion amount accurately.
Source:
Publication 54 - Excluding Foreign Earned Income
Form 2555 - Exclusion of Foreign Earned Income
Form 1116 - Foreign Tax Credit
Publication 519 - U.S. Tax Treaties
Disclaimer: Always verify details with official IRS forms and instructions or consult with a tax professional. OLT (Online Taxes) provides guidance based on retrieved information but does not guarantee accuracy for individual circumstances.