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.
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Understanding Global Mobility Tax and GTN’s Role
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:
- Mobility tax questions that impact HR and mobility professionals every day.
- Questions about GTN and how we partner with clients worldwide.
The US is one of the only countries to require its citizens and permanent residents (i.e., green card holders) to file annual tax returns and report their worldwide income, regardless of their actual work location. When working outside the United States, it is often the case that US persons are subject to taxation in the county where they are physically located.
All US citizens and permanent residents must file federal income tax returns if they meet the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) filing threshold. The size of this threshold will vary depending on factors such as age, filing status, and type of income (e.g., income from employment or self-employment). For example, a single individual under the age of 65 would be required to file a 2024 US federal income tax return if their gross income exceeded $14,600. If the earnings came from self-employment, this same person would need to file a US federal tax return if their net earnings exceeded $400.
This article was originally published in Mobility Magazine.
Corporate moves are surging. According to an Atlas Van Lines report, 70% of all companies reported an increase in employee relocations last year. Unfortunately, relocating employees in the US or abroad could require tax obligations that not all HR and mobility professionals are prepared for.
What’s more, many leaders often assume their relocation management company (RMC), mobility tax provider, or local payroll provider will automatically handle tax compliance for their domestic and international moves. That’s not always the case. This article will look at the common misconceptions about relocation tax compliance and lay out tips to help your team avoid tax violations and maximize tax savings for moving expenses.
This article was originally published in Corporate Compliance Insights.
Return-to-office calls notwithstanding, many observers expect remote or hybrid work to continue to grow in popularity this year. GTN Director, Tracy Novotny, explores the tax and compliance implications corporate leaders need to know for 2024.




