FileAbroad vs Tax Samaritan: Which Is Right for You?
Tax Samaritan is an established expat tax preparation service with a strong reputation and competitive pricing. FileAbroad is a deliberately small practice where you work directly with the preparer. Both serve Americans abroad — the right choice depends on your priorities.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | FileAbroad | Tax Samaritan |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Solo preparer, direct access | Team-based, established firm |
| Pricing | From $575/return | From $295/return (varies by complexity) |
| Preparer access | Direct access to Chip | Assigned preparer |
| PTIN holder | Yes | Yes (multiple preparers) |
| IRS e-file provider | Yes | Yes |
| Based abroad | Yes (Ecuador) | Partially |
| Services | Tax prep, FBAR, streamlined, consulting | Tax prep, FBAR, streamlined, consulting |
What Tax Samaritan Does Well
Tax Samaritan has built a strong reputation over many years. They offer competitive pricing and have experience with a wide range of expat situations. Their established processes and team-based model provide coverage during busy season.
For Americans who prefer an established firm with a track record, Tax Samaritan 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.
Chip lives abroad and understands the practical realities of foreign banking, visa requirements, and local tax systems.
Who Should Choose Tax Samaritan
- Americans who prefer an established firm with a long track record
- Those seeking competitive pricing
- People comfortable with a team-based model
- Americans with standard 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 prefer phone or email communication
- Americans who value a preparer who lives abroad
The Bottom Line
Tax Samaritan is a good fit if you prefer an established firm with competitive pricing. 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