Case Study: Resolving Complex Expat Tax Issues Across Borders

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Client Profile: American Expatriate Couple in Australia

Issue: Cross-border Payroll & Late Lodgement Interest

The Challenge

An American couple relocated to Australia for work and spent nearly four years living here. However, due to limitations on their employer’s part, their payroll continued to be reported through the U.S. payroll system—even though they were living and working in Australia.

The employer was unwilling to transition their reporting to an Australian payroll structure, citing the complexities of local employer compliance. Unfortunately, this left the couple in a difficult situation. Over time, as incorrect reporting and delayed lodgements piled up, they faced a significant tax liability in Australia—plus over $53,000 in interest charges between them.

The process was drawn out, stressful, and left them unsure of what to do next.

How We Helped

At Trident Financial, we knew a conventional approach wouldn’t cut it—this situation needed both creativity and cross-border expertise.

Here’s how we supported the couple:

We identified a workaround that allowed them to meet their Australian tax obligations despite their U.S.-based payroll reporting.
We thoroughly reviewed and corrected their Australian tax lodgements for the entire four-year period.
Recognising that the interest charges were largely the result of factors outside their control, we submitted a detailed case to the ATO requesting full remission of the $53,000 in interest.
On the U.S. side, we coordinated closely with our affiliate firm GTN, a global mobility tax specialist, to ensure full compliance across both jurisdictions.

The Outcome

The ATO accepted our remission request, and the couple had 100% of the interest charges waived.
They only needed to pay the actual tax owed—no penalties, no extra interest.
Their complex cross-border tax affairs were brought fully into compliance, and they could finally move forward with peace of mind.

The Bigger Picture

This case highlights one of Trident Financial’s key strengths—our global reach and trusted international partnerships. Thanks to our close working relationship with GTN in the United States, we were able to provide seamless support on both sides of the Pacific.

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