US citizen worldwide tax: how much taxed in HK? Exempt?

So US citizens get taxed worldwide, but I read that your first $80,000 is un-taxed. Suppose you earn $120,000 all-in as a first year analyst in HK, how much of the $40k taxable income gets taxed?

Moreover, if you were a dual citizen with the US, then couldn't you just apply with your other (non-worldwide tax) passport, and therefore avoid the US worldwide tax? Would there be any consequences to this?

2 Comments
 

I only have the info for 2009, but it should help you out and give you an idea. In order to claim foreign earned income you must:

Be a bonafide resident of the foreign country Be present in the country for at least 330 days during any 12 consecutive months

In 2009, the deduction was $91,400. I heard from somewhere this year wasn't indexed (verify that professionally!) so it may be the same for 2010.

Also, if you live abroad, reasonable housing costs may be excluded from gross income (see IRC SS911(c)).

Calculate: 120 - 91 - (maybe housing costs barring conditions met) = maximum AGI of 29k. That makes you 15% bracket. I used to know this like the back of my hand when I lived in Russia. My advice: see a professional. In the mean time, that should give you an idea.

 

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