Why Every Engagement Begins with a Paid Diagnostic

Clarity. Accuracy. Confidence.

At NZ US Tax Specialists, every new U.S. tax engagement starts with a Paid Diagnostic—and there’s a very good reason for that.

U.S. tax law is complex, and cross‑border situations add layers of nuance that simply can’t be assessed through a quick chat, an email, or assumptions.

To give you correct advice and ensure you file the right forms at the right time, we begin with a structured, expert-led review of your situation.

This isn’t an “extra step.” It’s the foundation of your entire tax outcome.

What Is the Paid Diagnostic?

The Diagnostic is a comprehensive onboarding process where we examine the exact factors that determine your U.S. tax obligations. This includes:

• Your U.S. citizenship or residency status
• Your New Zealand (and global) income streams
• Any business or investment interests
• Your tax residency position under U.S. and treaty rules
• Filing thresholds and required U.S. reporting forms (like FBAR, FATCA, PFIC, state returns, etc.)
• Any past filing gaps or compliance risks

By the end of the Diagnostic, we know your full filing picture with precision—so you don’t under‑file, over‑file, or pay for work you don’t need.

Why We Require the Diagnostic Before Any Services

1. Every Cross-Border Situation Is Unique

No two taxpayers living outside the U.S. have the same mix of income, assets, family structure, residency, or history. A clear, structured review ensures we don’t make assumptions that could lead to incorrect filings.

2. We Determine Your Exact U.S. Filing Obligations

Before quoting any package, we identify all forms and schedules you are legally required to file. This prevents surprises, scope creep, and unnecessary costs later.

3. You Receive Transparent, Tailored Pricing

After the Diagnostic, you are shown the package options that match your true complexity.
You only pay for what applies to you—nothing more.

4. You Get Expert Guidance Before Committing to a Package

We explain your obligations clearly, answer your questions, and lay out your compliance roadmap. Many clients say this session alone relieves years of uncertainty.

5. It Protects Both You and Your Tax Preparer

Starting with incomplete information risks incorrect filings. The Diagnostic ensures accuracy, compliance, and defensible tax positions.

What You Receive From the Diagnostic

By the end of the session, you will have:

• A clear understanding of your U.S. tax status
• A list of all forms you are required to file
• An assessment of your filing complexity
• Identification of any risks or compliance gaps
• A recommendation of the most suitable package
• Fixed pricing for the work required

You’re free to move forward with us—or take the results elsewhere. The Diagnostic is yours.

What Happens Next

Once your Diagnostic is complete:

  1. We present the package options that apply to your situation.
  2. You choose the package that fits your needs and budget.
  3. We begin preparing your U.S. tax return with all the information we’ve gathered.

Simple. Clear. Transparent.

Why Clients Appreciate This Approach

Clients consistently tell us they love the Diagnostic because:

• It removes uncertainty
• It feels structured and professional
• They know exactly what they’re signing up for
• Pricing is clear
• They feel confident they’re complying fully with U.S. tax law

Instead of guesswork, they begin their tax season with clarity.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re living in New Zealand (or anywhere outside the U.S.) and need expert guidance on your U.S. tax obligations, your first step is the Paid Diagnostic.

It’s the fastest, most accurate way to understand your filing requirements and choose the right package.

Book your Diagnostic today and take the guesswork out of U.S. tax compliance.