Malaysia Forum

Guava
Joined 2013
Posts: 2

10 years ago

Taxation for U.S. citizens working in Malaysia

10 years ago

Hi there,

Wondering if there are any U.S. citizens out here who has earned Malaysian income...

If so -- 3 questions:

1) I need help understanding if there is dual taxation or not (required to pay both Malaysian and U.S. taxes on this Malaysian-earned income)..! I'm asking because I need to create a budget and propose a salary for a possible job.

I had read that there is no country agreement between U.S. and Malaysia for eliminating dual taxation, however, if this is really true, then somewhere around 50% of my already-low income would go to taxes... !

2) I had also read that in some cases, U.S. citizens can be exempt from U.S. taxes in this scenario if the total income earned is below something like $96,000 (US dollars?); I also read that even if that didn't apply to someone, then they could at least apply for not being taxed on housing costs. (here is the link where I read this information: http://greenbacktaxservices.com/blog/us-expat-taxes-malaysia-guide/ ). I'm wondering if all this is true.

3) What is the least expensive, most helpful tax service you have personally used or know of whom I could consult or pay to do proper paperwork in this scenario? This Greenback tax service (link above) is something like $400, but I'd rather not spend that much, if possible.

Thanks for any and all thoughts.

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Malaysia Guide

Expats in Malaysia agree that living in Malaysia has its pros and cons. Expats love the welcoming Malay people, cultural diversity, lower cost of living and amazing food.

Malaysia Forum
Join our Malaysia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Malaysia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.

Best Places to Live in Malaysia

If you're dreaming about living in Malaysia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Malaysia in 2023.

Healthcare in Malaysia

Expats in Malaysia recommend that newcomers talk to friends and learn about the best hospitals, clinics and doctors in their area before a medical emergency arises.

Cost of Living in Malaysia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Malaysia.

Moving to Malaysia Guide

Expats are attracted to Malaysia's lower cost of living, bustling cities, multicultural vibe, climate and proximity to Singapore. Many expat retirees take advantage of the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program.

Real Estate in Malaysia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Malaysia.

Pros & Cons of Living in Malaysia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Malaysia.

Retiring in Malaysia

Advice for people retiring in Malaysia.

10 Tips for Living in Malaysia

If you've recently arrived in Malaysia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Malaysia.

Additional Information:

Visit our Malaysia Index for a Full List

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Malaysia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Malaysia.