I'm looking for advice from those who have freelanced remotely with an international agency.

I'm based in NYC and have had firms in Canada and England reach out about projects. The agencies have offices in the US but I would be working w/ their international teams (servicing US based clients). I've asked for my standard rate in USD converted to their currency.

Any advice on the best way to get paid? Have you asked to get paid by the US office instead? Any watch-outs for tax season?

TIA!

likesmart
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If you can, you should ask to be paid in USD. This way you are not at the mercy of the shifting exchange rate and it also means they pay the foreign exchange fees.

Add a note on your invoice about what form of payment you accept (transfer wise, PayPal, wire transfer etc) and clearly state that you are not responsible for any bank or foreign exchange fees.

If you’re a US Citizen, you have to declare your worldwide income. The international company doesn’t need to fill out any US tax forms though as they don’t have any legal obligation to the IRS.

You just add the amount as a line item on your tax return. I think it comes under “other income”. Make sure you keep around 40% of your paycheck aside so you can pay what you owe to the IRS at the end of the year.

An exception is Canada as they have a tax treaty with the US. Google it for more info.

Also it wouldn’t hurt to check with your accountant.

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Thank you for the very thorough and thoughtful reply! Appreciate the advice!

like

I worked with an Aussie agency in the US. They paid via wire transfer. Your bank may charge a fee which sucks but at least you can write it off.

I’ve worked with international agencies. They just sent a check. because it’s an international check, it takes a little longer to deposit.

I've been working with a Japanese company for years. I invoice in USD and they pay directly through my bank. They don't send me any tax forms so I just declare the actual amount as income. I've never had any problems. Sometimes they ask for a proof of residency form for their tax needs, which I request from the IRS and it takes them months to send.

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