Federal and state income tax — the basics

You're taxed twice over: federal tax to the IRS, plus state tax almost everywhere (a handful of states charge none). Returns are normally due by 15 April for the year before.

Key points to understand

Federal vs state: some states (like Texas and Florida) have no income tax at all

Federal vs state: some states (like Texas and Florida) have no income tax at all. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

W-2 (employee) vs 1099 (contractor) — and why contractors must set money aside themselves

W-2 (employee) vs 1099 (contractor) — and why contractors must set money aside themselves. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

FICA: Social Security and Medicare are taken from your paycheck on top of income tax

FICA: Social Security and Medicare are taken from your paycheck on top of income tax. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.