A Practical Checklist For Australians Moving To The United States
Moving from Australia to the United States is exciting, but the first U.S. tax season can feel like stepping into a maze. The U.S. tax system is far more document-driven and globally focused than Australia’s, and many new arrivals are caught off guard by what the IRS expects.
The good news? With the right preparation before you move, your first tax season can be far less stressful. Here’s a checklist of items every Australian should gather and understand before relocating to the U.S.
1. Clear Records Of Your Move Date (This Matters More Than You Think)
Your exact date of arrival in the U.S. is critical. U.S. tax residency is not based on intention—it’s based on days physically present. You also need to have records of any dates you’ve left (even for temporary travel) the U.S. once you’ve moved.
Have on hand:
- Flight itineraries and entry stamps
- Visa start date
- Lease agreements or housing contracts
- Any travel dates after your move to the U.S.
These dates determine whether you’re treated as:
- A nonresident,
- A dual-status taxpayer, or
- A U.S. tax resident for that year
This classification drives everything that follows.
2. Copies Of Your Most Recent Australian Tax Returns
Bring at least the last two years of:
- Australian individual tax returns
- Notices of assessment
- PAYG summaries or income statements
These help:
- Establish income earned before U.S. residency
- Support treaty positions
- Substantiate foreign tax credits later
Even income that won’t be taxed again in the U.S. often needs to be reported.
3. A Full Snapshot Of Your Worldwide Income (Not Just Salary)
The U.S. taxes based on citizenship and residency, not source. Once you’re a U.S. tax resident, the IRS wants to see everything.
Prepare documentation for:
- Australian employment income
- Bonuses paid after you leave (even if earned before)
- Rental income
- Dividends and interest
- Trust or partnership distributions
If it earned money anywhere in the world, assume the U.S. cares.
4. Details Of All Australian Bank Accounts
Many Australians are surprised to learn that foreign bank accounts are a major U.S. compliance issue, not a minor one.
You’ll want:
- Bank names and addresses
- Account numbers
- Maximum balances during the year
Why this matters:
- Accounts may trigger FBAR and FATCA reporting
- Penalties for missing these forms can be severe even when no tax is owed
This includes everyday savings and transaction accounts.
5. Information On Your Superannuation Accounts
Australian superannuation is one of the most misunderstood areas in U.S.–Australia tax planning.
Before moving, gather:
- Super fund statements
- Employer vs personal contribution history
- Withdrawal restrictions
The U.S. does not treat super the same way Australia does. In some cases:
- Earnings may be taxable annually
- Reporting obligations may apply even if funds are locked until retirement
This is an area where advance planning pays off.
6. Investment And Asset Purchase Records
If you own assets, documentation is essential to avoid double taxation later.
Bring records for:
- Australian shares or ETFs
- Property purchase contracts
- Cost base and acquisition dates
- Crypto transaction history
The U.S. uses different rules for:
- Capital gains
- Depreciation
- Currency conversion
Without records, you may pay more tax than necessary.
7. Visa And Immigration Documents
Your visa type can affect how the IRS views you.
Have copies of:
- Visa approval notices
- I-94 arrival records
- Employment authorization documents
Certain visas may qualify for:
- Treaty benefits
- Temporary exemptions from residency tests
But these benefits are time-limited and documentation-dependent.
8. Awareness Of The U.S.–Australia Tax Treaty
The tax treaty can:
- Prevent double taxation
- Modify how certain income is taxed
- Provide tie-breaker rules for residency
But treaties are not automatic. You must claim them correctly on your return.
Knowing this ahead of time helps avoid missed opportunities.
9. A Cross-Border Tax Advisor (Before You Need One)
Perhaps the most important item on this list isn’t a document—it’s expert guidance.
The U.S. tax system:
- Penalizes late or incorrect filings harshly (penalties for a single missing form can amount to tens of thousands of dollars)
- Requires proactive reporting
- Treats foreign assets with heightened scrutiny
Working with someone who understands both Australian and U.S. tax systems can save you time, money, and stress in your first year.
Final Thought
Your first U.S. tax season doesn’t start in April—it starts before you board the plane. A little preparation now can prevent expensive mistakes later and help you start your new chapter in the U.S. with confidence.