SERVICES

Tax Services

Can a Consular officer help me with my taxes?

Consular Officers are not permitted to give advice on the filing of income tax returns, other than to refer taxpayers to the appropriate Internal Revenue Service (IRS) forms and information pamphlets, many of which are available at the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou. Only IRS employees are authorized to provide guidance to individuals on tax matters.

How do I contact the IRS?

Taxpayers requiring IRS assistance can contact the IRS Philadelphia Service Center,
Customer Service Phone: 1-215-516-2000
Customer Service Fax: 1-215-516-2555

Quick & Easy Access to Tax Help & Forms
Where’s my Refund:               1-800-829-1954 (6am-11pm U.S. EST)
Tax Information & Assistance: 1-800-829-1040 (Indivisuals), 1-800-829-4933 (business)                                        
Forms & Publications:             1-800-829-3676
Tele-Tax Information Line:      1-800-829-4477
IRS Internet Website:             www.irs.gov
(You can also download IRS forms and publications from this website)

Does the Consulate General have tax forms?

Each year, the Consulate General receives copies of the most common federal tax forms, plus a CD-ROM with all IRS publications. Please note that we do not carry any state tax forms. You must contact your individual state of residence to obtain those forms.

What if I can't file in time?

Overseas taxpayers are automatically eligible for a two-month extension if they are unable to file their taxes by the April 15 deadline. Simply wrote "Overseas Taxpayer" at the top of your return to claim the extension. Please note that an extension to file does not mean to have an extension to pay. If you owe tax, interest will accrue from the April 15 deadline.

Since I live overseas, aren't I exempt from paying?

Some overseas taxpayers may qualify for the Foreign-Earned Income Exclusion. However, there are strict qualifying criteria. Please consult with the IRS or an accountant to learn if you qualify.