How Passive Foreign Investment Corporation (PFIC) Tax Rules Affect most Americans Abroad
Our paper outlines major takeaways for U.S. taxpayers who have invested in a Passive Foreign Investment Corporation (PFIC), namely:
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Tax treatment of PFICs is highly punitive compared to U.S.-domiciled funds. It explains the filing requirements for shareholders and details three tax elections for reporting PFIC information, including:
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The Qualified Electing Fund (QEF) Election
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The Mark-to-Market Election
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The Default, or “Do Nothing,” Approach
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Beyond high tax rates, the stringent tax reporting requirements surrounding PFICs make it time-consuming and expensive to properly comply.
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One of the most effective ways to mitigate the negative financial consequences of PFIC ownership is to invest using individual securities.