Tax query - working abroad

[Ecosseven]

I have been resident outside the UK since 15th June 2008. It is my understanding that I need to be non-resident for one complete tax year in order to be eligible for tax free status. Unfortunately I may be forced to return to the UK before the end of the 2009 / 2010 tax year for family reasons. Will I have to pay tax on all my overseas earnings if this is the case?

[anonymous-user]

I have not been tax resident since 1983, and then you could get non tax status on the forign income if you planned to be out for 12 months. But as I know understand it you have to be out for a whole tax year, so if you return before 5th April 2010, you will be liable on all monies earned, which is why I would not take a job in the UK as it would take two years to get back out. But there are rules allowing visits to the UK, some one with mo knowledge than me comment as I'm aslo intrested in the current status.

[XJSJohn]

I am sure an accountant will be along soon but if you have not already, get a backdated P85 form into the infernal revenue too.

[Eric Mc]

Occasional visits to the UK of short duratiion will not compromise your non-UK tax residency status. Check out the Revenue's website for the periods of time and frequency of return visits allowed.

[GT03ROB]

Ecosseven said:

I have been resident outside the UK since 15th June 2008. It is my understanding that I need to be non-resident for one complete tax year in order to be eligible for tax free status. Unfortunately I may be forced to return to the UK before the end of the 2009 / 2010 tax year for family reasons. Will I have to pay tax on all my overseas earnings if this is the case?

Unfortunately the short answer is yes.

You will have people along soon to say don't work until after April 6th & all other such suggestions, but the way it's supposed to work is that this doesn't matter. The moment your contract of employment is terminated & you then set foot back in the UK you become resident again.

If you had paid tax overseas you could normally claim this as a credit aainst UK tax, however I note you are in Ab Dabs so no chance there.

[Ecosseven]

Thanks for the responses. I filled out all the necessary forms when I left the UK inckluding P85 and CF83 (N.I.).

I have spoken to an accountant and am now clear on the situation.

Cheers.