Although I grew up in Europe, I inherited a US citizenship from my parents. I did live in the US briefly as a teen, but did not have a particularly good experience in that country and moved up here to Canada as soon as I graduated from high school. I picked Canada because my boyfriend-at-the-time (now husband and father of my son) lived here, but I’ve since fallen in love with this amazing country!
I never considered myself American. I don’t hate the US, but it’s just never been a part of my identity. So imagine my surprise when I found out, on Sunday, October 2, 2011, that I am obligated to file my tax return to a country I never lived in as an adult, have never made an income in, and that I never chose to be associated with!
I made this website because it’s the only power I have. I’m just an individual, a wife and mother, of modest means and no political clout. The only thing I can do to fight the unfairness of the US tax system regarding expats is to educate others and keep the conversation going.
I am not writing this as an expert and I (obviously) cannot give you any legal or financial advice. If you would like to contribute content for this blog, please e-mail me at lbdeckard@gmail.com.
My wife was born in the US – in 1953. Her parents moved to Canada when she was two years old. She has “permanent resident” status. Have been meaning to take out Cdn citizenship – but, have been so busy raising a family and all that it hasn’t happened yet. She did work a bit, not much.. but, paid all the applicable Canadian taxes, etc. NOW, we’re hearing these stories that make us scared to drive down into the US. Do you think such fears are well founded?
If so, this is an unacceptable and insane nightmare.
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