Do You Need US/UK Tax Return Preparation? A Decision Guide

FAQs

Can I file my own US and UK taxes if I’m a simple PAYE employee?

Often yes, if you have no foreign investments beyond basic savings, no property, no self-employment income, and no gaps in your filing history. Even then, a one-off professional review before filing is a low-cost way to catch mistakes.

Does having a UK workplace pension complicate my US return?

It can. Some UK pension structures require specific US tax treatment and disclosure, and getting it wrong can create reporting problems down the line. It’s worth confirming your specific pension type with a specialist rather than assuming.

What’s the single biggest mistake DIY filers make?

Misreporting or entirely omitting UK investment funds that qualify as PFICs under US tax law. The default US tax treatment of a PFIC is punitive, and most tax software doesn’t flag the issue automatically.

I moved to London mid-year — does that change things?

Yes. Split-year treatment affects both your US and UK returns, and the two countries don’t always define the transition date the same way. This is one of the most common triggers for needing professional help

Does this decision guide apply the same way to green card holders as US citizens?

Broadly yes. Green card holders are generally subject to the same worldwide income taxation as US citizens, so the same six trigger questions apply regardless of whether your US status comes from citizenship or permanent residency.