GTN Mobility Tax Blog

Busy season is here. And at GTN, that means tax forms, deadlines, and a little extra facial hair and flair.

GTN’s 13^th annual Beards and Braids for Busy Season (BBFBS) campaign is officially underway, and once again we are turning a demanding time of year into an opportunity to do some real good.BBFBS is more than a tradition. It is a chance to come together, have a little fun, and make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.

It might seem counterintuitive to a US citizen or permanent resident (i.e., green card holder) who has just taken a new international job, that they may still be required to file a US federal income tax return after relocating. In addition, these international mobile employees may have other filing obligations including estate or gift tax returns, estimated tax payments, and foreign bank account reports.

Global mobility tax services encompass the full range of tax, payroll, and compliance activities required when employees work outside their Home country. From managing shadow payrolls to supporting tax equalization, these services help companies maintain compliance, reduce risk, and create a smoother experience for mobile employees.

As organizations plan for what’s next in the global mobility landscape, technology adoption, regulatory change, and cost pressures continue to influence how mobility programs are built and managed. Global mobility is no longer just about relocations; it has become a strategic function that prioritizes efficiency, compliance, and employee experience.

Accurately budgeting and accruing for tax equalized assignment costs is essential to reduce year-end surprises and for keeping your mobility program financially predictable. The initial tax cost projection is the starting point which considers key elements of the assignment compensation package. However, the real challenge to maintain a reasonable accrual often comes with managing complexities that can arise once the assignment is underway. 

Global mobility programs are complex, and with complexity comes questions. Whether you’re managing a few mobile employees or a large, international program, understanding how global mobility tax works, and how GTN supports you along the way, can make all the difference.

This guide addresses two key areas:

1. Mobility tax questions that impact HR and mobility professionals every day.
2. Questions about GTN and how we partner with clients worldwide.