Tax advisor for international income tax query

[Happy_Harry]

As per one of my previous posts I intend to work abroad for a while and before I sign my name on the dotted line. I want to make sure that there are no unpleasant surprises in terms of tax.

I have done a lot of research on revenue.ie. I also called my tax office, but I just didn't get a very warm feeling about the information I got there.. (Basically a long story on my side and (after some consultation with a colleague) a very short positive answer..

What would a tax advisor specialised in international assignments charge roughly for some simple advice ? Any recommendations ? (Obviously I will disregard any (self) recommendation from fresh members in the form of PMs)

 

[Setanta12]

15 minutes ? You're joking, right ?

What countries are involved ? Most countries will require some homework.

Cannot see any accountancy practice entertaining such a low fee - for one; there are money-laundering regulations to adhere to which take time; and more time than EUR50 is worth.

 

[capnhand]

Hi

Most international tax queries require a good deal of time and thought before the right solution is arrived at and then implemented. There is anti-avoidence legislation to consider as well as perhaps implementation of a plan/structure depending on the circumstances.

Any practitioner who says that it can be dealt with in 15 minutes frankly dosen't know what they are talking about.

capnhand

 

[mandelbrot]

CapNhand,,

I think in general terms you are correct, If you drink a cup of tea enough times, it takes less time drinking the next cup. I would expect 30 years doing it, answers your concern.

Ummm yeah... you're not the only experienced tax professional on here though tax-fix, and blasé statements like 15 minutes to figure out the optimum solution to a person's international tax query just ain't gonna wash.

I know a chartered accountant / AITI with 40 years experience last year who cost his clients several hundred thousand in income tax on a share buyback due mainly to his arrogance and self-assuredness - "I've been doing this for 40 years, I couldn't possibly be wrong". He is now "retired" with a substantial P.I. claim against him. Experience has a value, but so does thoroughness.