What is Blocked Income? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: How is blocked income taxed?

Blocked income is not subject to U.S. taxation but must be reported as gross income when received.

Q: Can I convert blocked income to U.S. dollars?

No, blocked income cannot be converted due to restrictions imposed by the foreign country.

Definition & Meaning

Blocked income is money that a foreign taxpayer earns but cannot convert into U.S. dollars due to restrictions imposed by the foreign country. As a result, this income is not subject to U.S. taxation. For cash basis taxpayers, blocked income is recognized as gross income in the year it is received. If the blocked income can be used as disposable income within the foreign country, it may be valued at the free market exchange rate in the United States.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Blocked income is primarily relevant in international tax law. It affects foreign taxpayers who earn income in countries with strict currency controls. Understanding this term is crucial for tax compliance and reporting. Users may need to manage forms related to foreign income reporting, and tools like US Legal Forms can provide templates to assist in these processes.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(Hypothetical example) A U.S. citizen working in a country with strict currency controls earns $10,000 in local currency. Due to regulations, they cannot convert this income to U.S. dollars. This income is considered blocked income and is reported as gross income for tax purposes when received.

Relevant laws & statutes

Blocked income is recognized in case law, specifically in BERMAN v. COMMISSIONER, T.C. Memo 1983-214 (T.C. 1983), which defines income subject to foreign exchange regulations as blocked income. Other specific statutes may not apply directly to this term.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Difference
Blocked Income	Income that cannot be converted to U.S. dollars due to foreign regulations.	Specifically relates to foreign income and currency restrictions.
Foreign Income	Income earned outside of the U.S. that may be subject to U.S. taxation.	Foreign income may not be blocked and can often be converted.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you have received blocked income, it's essential to report it accurately on your tax returns. Consider using templates from US Legal Forms to help you manage the necessary documentation. If your situation is complex, consulting with a tax professional is advisable to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Blocked income is not subject to U.S. taxation.
Recognized as gross income by cash basis taxpayers.
Valuation may occur at the free market exchange rate if disposable income is available.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is blocked income?

Blocked income is money earned by a foreign taxpayer that cannot be converted into U.S. dollars due to foreign regulations.