Turbotax offers a feature for Americans living abroad but makes it IMPOSSIBLE to file. First of all, it is only possible to pay with a credit card that has a US mailing address. I have a foreign address (since I am LIVING ABROAD), but ok, I got a special US credit card for this purpose. Then, when I tried to pay with the US credit card, I was not able to (and how frustrating that I was not notified the exact reason - I just got this mystery error). If I can't change the mailing address of my tax return to be a US address, and I can't pay with a foreign credit card, then how in the heck am I supposed to file my taxes??!!
Second, turbotax makes it necessary to put a phone number to complete my tax return. There is no possibility to enter a foreign phone number, only US. No selection for mobile/home number. I do not even have a US phone number! If I did, then I would not be LIVING ABROAD!
I just spent many many many hours understanding how to file my taxes properly with turbotax. It really seems there is a product for expats because you can enter foreign earned income and foreign tax credit, if you are living abroad full time. I am now completely frustrated and fear that it was all a waste.
