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FIRPTA and Document Retention: How Long Should You Keep Property Sale Records After Selling a U.S. Property?

FIRPTA and Document Retention: How Long Should You Keep Property Sale Records After Selling a U.S. Property?

Learn how long to keep FIRPTA property sale documents. Protect against IRS audits and secure refund claims by retaining records for at least seven years.

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How to Avoid IRS Penalties When Buying Property from a Non-Resident

How to Avoid IRS Penalties When Buying Property from a Non-Resident

When buying U.S. property from a foreign seller, FIRPTA requires the buyer to withhold part of the sale price. Learn what your responsibilities are and how to avoid IRS penalties for non-compliance.

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Am I Considered a Foreign Person? A Guide on Understanding Your FIRPTA Status

Am I Considered a Foreign Person? A Guide on Understanding Your FIRPTA Status

If you're selling U.S. property, FIRPTA may require tax withholding if you're a 'foreign person.' This guide explains who qualifies as foreign under U.S. tax law, how FIRPTA withholding works, and ways to minimize or avoid it. Understand your status before closing a deal.

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Are You a Foreign Person? Understanding FIRPTA When Selling Through a Domestic LLC

Are You a Foreign Person? Understanding FIRPTA When Selling Through a Domestic LLC

Selling U.S. property through a domestic LLC? FIRPTA may still apply if you're a foreign owner. Learn how tax classification affects withholding and what steps to take for compliance.

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FIRPTA Refunds in Florida: How Local Expertise Empowers Your International Real-Estate Transaction

FIRPTA Refunds in Florida: How Local Expertise Empowers Your International Real-Estate Transaction

Florida’s booming real estate market continues to attract international buyers, but selling U.S. property as a foreign investor comes with its own set of tax hurdles—especially under FIRPTA. While the federal withholding process may seem daunting, the good news is that much of what’s withheld can often be reclaimed. That’s where we come in. With deep local knowledge and a hands-on approach, our Florida-based team at TFG ensures your FIRPTA refund is fast, accurate, and stress-free. Learn how expert guidance turns tax complexity into opportunity—so you can invest smarter in the Sunshine State.

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FIRPTA Refunds 101: Recover Your Money from Excess Withholding on U.S. Property Sales

FIRPTA Refunds 101: Recover Your Money from Excess Withholding on U.S. Property Sales

Sold property in the U.S. and had part of your proceeds withheld? You might be entitled to a refund. This guide breaks down how FIRPTA works, why you may have been over-withheld, and how to get your money back. Learn the steps to claim your refund and avoid leaving money on the table.

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Realtor handing keys to happy client

Realtors, Get Ahead: How Mastering FIRPTA Refunds Can Close More Deals

Mastering FIRPTA refunds can help you close more deals and build client trust. Learn how this often-overlooked tax detail can set you apart.

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Not Sure if FIRPTA 
Applies to You?

Whether you’re a Withholding Agent, Transferor, Transferee, or a real estate professional, our experts offer clear, step-by-step guidance to help you determine your eligibility, ensuring you avoid delays and remain compliant.

Ready to Get 
Your Refund?

If you’re confident that you’re eligible for a FIRPTA refund, our experienced team ensures a smooth and accurate filing process, helping you avoid delays and complications.

FIRPTA Refund 
FAQs

Got questions about your FIRPTA refund? Find quick answers to the most common questions about the process, fees, and timelines.
What is FIRPTA?
FIRPTA, or the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, is a U.S. law that mandates tax withholding on the sale of U.S. real estate by foreign sellers. While often mistaken for a tax, FIRPTA is actually a withholding mechanism created by the Internal Revenue Service of the United States (IRS) to ensure that foreign individuals and entities meet their tax obligations on any gain from the sale.
Who is responsible for withholding under FIRPTA?
The buyer of a U.S. real estate property from a foreign seller is responsible for withholding 15% of the property's gross sale price at closing. This amount must then be submitted to the IRS in compliance with FIRPTA regulations.
Who is considered a foreign seller under FIRPTA?
The buyer of a U.S. real estate property from a foreign seller is responsible for withholding 15% of the property's gross sale price at closing. This amount must then be submitted to the IRS in compliance with FIRPTA regulations.
What if the seller is not a foreign person?
If the seller is not a foreign person, they can provide the buyer with a Certification of Non-Foreign Status. This certification confirms their exemption from FIRPTA withholding, and the buyer must retain it for their records.