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.
We re-map your deductions and recover missed savings, crew-style.
We handle transcripts, rebuild records, and file in sequence.
We model FEIE/FTC, day counts, and treaty positions—safely.
Bank & immigration-ready paperwork with 2-Day Express.
Who We Serve
Foreign flags, rotating itineraries, split-year residency, and varied pay (wires, payroll, tips, per-diem style costs) demand a crew-aware tax approach and documentation standards designed to stand up to scrutiny.
What We Do
Return Prep & Filing
1040 / 1040-NR + schedules, FEIE (2555), FTC (1116), state filings, extensions.
Residency & Treaty
Day counts, closer-connection, dual-status statements, treaty positions (where applicable).
Deduction Mapping
Travel days, uniforms/PPE, courses & certs, agency fees, foreign port costs.
Lender/Immigration Support
Verification letters and documentation bundles aligned to bank & consular requests.
Catch-Up & Clean-Up
IRS transcripts, prior-year filings, penalty abatement when appropriate.
Advisory All Year
Itinerary changes, flag changes, side gigs/1099, and state tie reviews before issues arise.
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?
Do I file 1040 or 1040-NR?
What deductions can crew claim?
Can you work fully remote?
Explore related services: Quarterly Crew Accounting · Fast Filing · Tax Insights