FileAbroad vs 1040 Abroad: Which Is Right for You?
1040 Abroad is a specialized expat tax preparation service with competitive pricing and a focus on Americans living outside the US. FileAbroad is a deliberately small practice where you work directly with the preparer. Both specialize in expat tax — the right choice depends on your priorities.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | FileAbroad | 1040 Abroad |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Solo preparer, direct access | Team-based, specialized |
| Pricing | From $575/return | From $200/return (varies by complexity) |
| Preparer access | Direct access to Chip | Assigned preparer |
| PTIN holder | Yes | Yes |
| IRS e-file provider | Yes | Yes |
| Based abroad | Yes (Ecuador) | Yes |
| Services | Tax prep, FBAR, streamlined, consulting | Tax prep, FBAR, streamlined |
What 1040 Abroad Does Well
1040 Abroad offers competitive pricing, particularly for straightforward returns. They specialize in expat tax and have experience with a wide range of situations. Their pricing is transparent and published on their website.
For Americans seeking affordable expat tax preparation from a specialized firm, 1040 Abroad is a solid option.
What FileAbroad Does Differently
FileAbroad offers direct, personal access to the preparer. Chip reviews your situation, prepares your return, and communicates with you directly. The practice is focused exclusively on expat tax, with no domestic-only returns.
Who Should Choose 1040 Abroad
- Americans seeking competitive pricing for straightforward returns
- Those comfortable with a team-based model
- People with simple expat situations
Who Should Choose FileAbroad
- Americans who want direct access to their preparer
- Those with complex situations (foreign accounts, self-employment, property, prior-year issues)
- People who value a preparer who lives abroad
The Bottom Line
1040 Abroad is a good fit if you want competitive pricing from a specialized expat firm. FileAbroad is a good fit if you want direct, personal access to your preparer.
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FileAbroad explains U.S. federal tax and U.S. international information-reporting consequences of documented foreign facts. It does not provide foreign-country legal or tax representation, valuation opinions, banking or remittance advice, or advice on what a foreign authority will accept.
Scope statement reviewed 2026-08-30 · FileAbroad product/content owner