Federal and state income tax — who taxes what

You can be taxed twice on the same income: once by the IRS, once by your state. A handful of states levy no income tax at all, which is why the same salary goes further in some places.

Key points to understand

Federal tax is the same everywhere; state tax is not — a few states charge none

Federal tax is the same everywhere; state tax is not — a few states charge none. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Some cities add their own income tax on top (New York City is the famous one)

Some cities add their own income tax on top (New York City is the famous one). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Moving states mid-year usually means filing in both

Moving states mid-year usually means filing in both. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.