Yacht Crew • Planning • Advisory • Filing

Yacht Crew Taxes — Planning, Advisory & Filing

File correctly the first time. We optimize FEIE vs Foreign Tax Credit, handle 1040 / 1040-NR, and document travel days & port calls so your return is audit-aware and lender/immigration ready. Fort Lauderdale based. Global crew.

Switching from a generic preparer

We re-map your deductions and recover missed savings, crew-style.

Haven’t filed in years

We handle transcripts, rebuild records, and file in sequence.

International or dual-status complexity

We model FEIE/FTC, day counts, and treaty positions—safely.

Mortgage / visa urgency

Bank & immigration-ready paperwork with 2-Day Express.

Refund Estimator (Quick 2024 Ballpark)

Speak with an Advisor
Simplified federal estimate using 2024 standard deductions and marginal brackets. Does not cover everything (FEIE/AMT/NIIT/special credits). For crew cases, talk to us.
Estimated taxable income: $0
Estimated federal tax: $0
Withholding & credits: $0
$0
Positive = estimated refund • Negative = estimated tax due

Crew Scenarios, Forms & Timing

Situation Primary Forms Typical Timing*
U.S. crew working primarily abroad 1040 + 2555 / 1116 Apr 15 (ext. Oct 15)
Non-resident crew (no GC / SPT not met) 1040-NR + treaty statement (if applicable) Apr 15 (paper options vary)
Dual-status (arrive/leave U.S. mid-year) 1040 + 1040-NR statement Apr 15 (ext. Oct 15)
Side gigs / boat show income / 1099-NEC Sch C/SE + estimates Quarterly estimates + Apr 15
Foreign accounts / cards (FBAR/FATCA) FinCEN 114 / 8938 (if thresholds) Align with annual filing

*Dates shift for weekends/holidays and residency status. We’ll confirm your exact deadlines.

Crew Planning Pillars

  • FEIE vs FTC modeling to minimize total tax (federal + state)
  • Accurate day counts, travel logs, and port documentation
  • Deduction substantiation: uniforms/PPE, courses, agency fees
  • Side-income planning (Sch C, estimates, write-offs)
  • State domicile & closer-connection strategy to avoid surprises

Audit-Aware by Design

We build files the way examiners, lenders, and consulates expect: clear itineraries, contracts, and day counts; FEIE/FTC rationale; and ready-to-share verification letters that keep processes moving.

Our Process (Fast & Clear)

Discovery & Intake

15-minute call + quick doc snapshot. We confirm residency status, vessels/flags, and timelines.

Plan & Model

FEIE vs FTC, dual-status analysis, and deduction mapping specific to your itinerary.

File & Verify

We e-file and prepare lender/immigration letters as needed. FBAR/FATCA guidance if applicable.

Year-Round Support

When boats, flags, or residency change—your plan changes with it.

Mini Case Study — Dual-Status Chief Stew

A chief stew joined mid-year from abroad. We modeled FEIE vs FTC, prepared a dual-status filing with proper day counts, and documented foreign wages and travel. Outcome: clean return, lower total tax, and a smooth bank verification.

What You’ll Need

  • Last year’s return (if any) and basic contract details
  • Travel day/itinerary log (approximate is OK to start)
  • Pay summaries (wires/payroll) and any 1099-NEC
  • Foreign account/card info (if thresholds may apply)

Ready to file your crew return—properly and fast?

Bring last year’s return and a basic travel log. We’ll run a quick crew planning scan and outline savings/options before any engagement.

Yacht Crew Taxes — FAQ

Should I use FEIE or Foreign Tax Credit?
We model both. FEIE can exclude earned income if tests are met; FTC offsets U.S. tax with foreign tax paid. The right answer depends on pay, days, and state ties.
Do I file 1040 or 1040-NR?
U.S. citizens/GC holders file 1040. Nonresidents typically file 1040-NR. Dual-status years may require 1040 with an NR statement.
What deductions can crew claim?
Uniform/PPE, training/certs, certain travel days, agency/placement fees, and foreign port costs—properly documented and compliant.
Can you work fully remote?
Yes. Everything can be handled securely online via our upload portal. We’re also local to Fort Lauderdale for in-person needs.

Explore related services: Quarterly Crew Accounting · Fast Filing · Tax Insights