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norwalkesl · Joined: 22 Oct 2009 Posts: 366 Location: Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-China

I have read the multiple bills, so far nothing comes up in the thousands of pages. Just because current law allows no taxes on SS or income (if out 335+ days), I do not assume same for this bill.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

I'll wait until it gets passed before I worry about it Smile

Chancellor

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Wed Oct 28, 2009 3:54 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the link, Chancellor. I am SO using that in class this afternoon.

Gotta say, I don't really understand the OP's worry. Haven't read anything to imply, let alone state, that any bill being considered would change the tax liabilities of Americans living abroad.

Where did you get that idea?

In the last decade, we've done PLENTY of things more expensive than healthcare, without the idea of increasing taxation on US citizens overseas being floated to help pay for it. (Invading a few countries comes to mind.)

If you look at the real number of Americans who live overseas (very low compared to overall population), and what they're usually doing (most are either military or government employees, who are still taxed normally in any case), and you realize that additional taxation on those of us who are overseas in private employment would be a bureaucratic nightmare that wouldn't pay for the trouble.

Kinda looks like you're scaremongering, to tell you the truth. There isn't anything in any bill that's being considered that addresses or even suggests the idea of overseas taxation. Red herring anyone?

I'm not making a value judgement about taxation, you understand. Just pointing out that increasing taxation on overseas residents wouldn't be an efficient or even cost-effective way of financing any health care plan. And this is probably why, as far as we know, it is not being considered.

I sort of DO wonder if the healthcare options being floated would allow for voluntary contributions from overseas residents, the way social security does. Depending on the particulars, I might be interested in that.

Best,
Justin

norwalkesl · Joined: 22 Oct 2009 Posts: 366 Location: Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-China

johnslat · Posted: Wed Oct 28, 2009 7:08 pm Post subject:

Dear norwalkesl.

"Further discussion of this is simply beyond the scope of Dave's ESL forums."

I agree - but I think you'll find like-minded posters here:

http://www.thefoxnation.com/

Regards,
John

Chancellor · Posted: Wed Oct 28, 2009 8:28 pm Post subject:

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Wed Oct 28, 2009 8:32 pm Post subject:

norwalkesl · Joined: 22 Oct 2009 Posts: 366 Location: Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-China

They could simply tax all expats on income 5% (or such) to pay for healthcare.

It is unlikely since tax free status is a major benefit to the US global FS staff.

I see a dire tax revenue situation for the US for the foreseeble future.

We shall have to see upon the bill's passing.

My question has been answered - no one here has heard of this.

If such a thing existed, I am sure someone would have heard.