Moving to Canada from the U.S.: Tax Guide for Expats

In recent years, the news has been buzzing with stories surrounding Americans considering relocating to Canada. From remote workers to retirees looking to escape the states for the comfort of Canadian universal healthcare, the border receives thousands of American immigrants each year. The steps to relocating may be simple, but the issues surrounding the taxes are rather complicated.

Working with both the IRS and the CRA simultaneously means maneuvering two different taxation systems. Without extensive preparation, it is simple to find oneself at risk for double taxation, missed filing obligations, and various penalties. In this article, we’ll cover the taxes that pertain to relocating from the United States to Canada, along with the compliance requirements one must meet.

Residency for Tax Purposes

Canada bases the residency for taxing purposes on the ties you have established with the country. Examples are:

• Owing a home in Canada
• Relocating with your spouse or dependents
• Acquiring a Canadian bank account or a driver’s license

Each resident deemed a Canadian tax resident must report income earned from all over the world on a Canadian tax return. Residents with only superficial ties to Canada are considered non-residents for tax purposes, paying only on income earned in Canada.

U.S. Tax Obligations After Moving

Even with a relocation, you still have obligations to the U.S. for tax purposes. The U.S. uses a system of taxing its citizens based on citizenship rather than residency, so you are required to continue filing every year. Commonly used forms are:

• Form 1040 – U.S. income tax return
• FBAR (FinCEN 114) – Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts Report to the U.S. Treasury
• Form 8938 (FATCA) – for reporting specified foreign financial assets

Not filing FBARs or FATCA forms is one of the most common errors expats make, and the fines can reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Canadian Tax Filing Requirements

All Canadian residents file a T1 tax return each year to declare income and pay taxes. Notable differences from the U.S. includes:

• Due tax date: April 30 for the greater majority of citizens
• Blended federal and provincial tax rates (higher than U.S. federal rates)
• GST/HST credits, along with medical and charitable donation tax credits

Like the U.S., Canada also taxes worldwide income. Thus, coordination is required.

Tax Treaties & Credits

The U.S. The Canada tax treaty has a provision that prevents double taxation. Two key benefits include:

• Foreign Tax Credit (Form 1116) – allows Canadian taxes paid to be claimed as a credit to U.S. tax liability
• Tie-breaker rules – determines only one country that can claim you as their tax resident

For instance, working in Canada and paying tax to Canada allows you to reduce your Canadian tax liability that is payable to Canada when filing to the IRS.

Impact on Retirement & Investments

Retirement planning for individuals living in both the U.S. And Canada is particularly challenging due to:

• 401k and IRA – you may keep these accounts, but Canadian taxation upon withdrawal may vary.
• Social Security is taxable in one or both countries depending on the provisions of the treaty.
• RRSPs and TFSAs: Speaking of retirement, IRS treats RRSPs as tax-deferred items, TFSAs don’t receive the same treatment and create potential U.S. reporting nightmares as a result.

Using the correct structure can avoid losing your retirement savings to double taxation.

Estate & Gift Taxes

The U.S. still applies estate and gift taxes on its citizens, even if they reside permanently in Canada. On the other hand, Canada has a capital gains tax at death instead of the estate tax. Without planning, families with considerable wealth may end up facing taxes on both sides of the border.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not cutting the state ties – some states, including California or New York, may continue to consider you a resident if you don’t formally cut ties.
• Failing to report foreign assets – if certain thresholds are reached, unreported Canadian bank accounts can result in violations of the IRS.
• Not paying attention to treaty elections – reporting pension plans and other investments incorrectly can result in unneeded double taxation.

When to Consult a Tax Professional

If you find yourself in one of these situations, professional assistance is highly advised:

• Is a Dual Citizen, and has obligations to fulfill in both countries
• Are a business owner and expanding to the other country
• Have a family member who holds large investments or property
• As a retiree, receive Canadian private pensions and also hold US retirement accounts

With the assistance of Dimov Audit advisors, the finances will be optimized to reduce excessive taxation and remain compliant with IRS and CRA regulations.

FAQs

Do I have to pay U.S. taxes if I live in Canada?

Yes—U.S. citizens must file U.S. returns on worldwide income; double tax is usually reduced by the Foreign Tax Credit (Form 1116).

How do I become a tax resident of Canada?

Canada taxes you as a resident when you establish significant residential ties (home, spouse/dependents, IDs, etc.).

Will moving to Canada affect my Social Security?

Benefits still pay, but if you’re resident in Canada they’re taxed in Canada (with 15% exempt) under the treaty.

Can I keep my 401(k) or IRA after moving to Canada?

Yes—most people leave them in the U.S.; taxation of withdrawals follows the U.S.–Canada treaty.

Do I have to pay taxes twice if I move to Canada?

Generally no—the tax treaty and foreign tax credits are designed to prevent double taxation.

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