Tax Accountant in Cozumel for Expats and Businesses

Expats living in Cozumel and throughout the Riviera Maya face unique tax situations that require specialized expertise. These are the most common problems we solve as your dedicated tax accountant in Cozumel:

• Confusion about Mexican tax obligations: Many expats don't realize they need to file Mexican tax returns even if they already file in the US or Canada. We clarify your obligations and ensure full compliance with the SAT—without overpaying.
• Double taxation concerns: Without proper planning, you could pay taxes on the same income in both countries. We apply the Mexico-US Tax Treaty to eliminate or reduce double taxation legally.
• Difficulty getting RFC and e.firma: The SAT registration process for foreigners in Quintana Roo can be confusing and time-consuming. We handle the entire process and ensure you're set up in the correct tax regime. See our RFC registration service for foreigners.
• Property and rental income complications: Whether you own property through a fideicomiso or corporation, rental income from Airbnb or VRBO must be declared correctly to avoid SAT penalties. We specialize in vacation rental tax accounting in Cozumel.
• Language barrier with Mexican tax authorities: Dealing with the SAT, IMSS, or local authorities in Spanish can be overwhelming for English-speaking expats. We serve as your bilingual representative for all communications.
• Years of unfiled Mexican returns: If you have been in Mexico for several years without filing, we can regularize your situation efficiently, minimize penalties, and get you compliant going forward.

Our English-speaking tax accounting services in Cozumel are designed specifically for the international community living and investing in Quintana Roo:

• US and Canadian expats living in Mexico: Whether you have temporary or permanent residency, we help you meet your Mexican tax obligations and coordinate with your home-country accountant on foreign income reporting.
• Property owners in Cozumel and the Riviera Maya: Foreign investors who own vacation homes, rental properties, or commercial real estate in Mexico and need proper tax accounting services in Cozumel.
• Airbnb and vacation rental hosts: Hosts managing short-term rentals who need to comply with Mexican tax law and SAT platform reporting requirements for digital rental income.
• Business owners and entrepreneurs: Expats running businesses in Cozumel who need corporate accounting, payroll management, and full tax compliance with Mexican law.
• Remote workers and digital nomads: Those earning foreign income while residing in Mexico and unsure about their Mexican tax residency status and filing obligations.
• Retirees receiving foreign pensions or investments: Expats with pension income, investment accounts, or Social Security from the US who need to understand how Mexico taxes foreign-source income.

There are many accountants in Cozumel. Here is what makes us the preferred choice for the expat community in Quintana Roo:

• Fluent in English and Spanish: We communicate clearly in English and handle all interactions with Mexican tax authorities, notaries, and government offices in Spanish on your behalf.
• 25+ years serving the expat community: We've worked with hundreds of US and Canadian expats in Cozumel and the Riviera Maya and understand the specific challenges foreigners face in the Mexican tax system.
• Mexico-US Tax Treaty expertise: We know how to structure your affairs and apply treaty benefits to minimize your overall tax burden legally, both in Mexico and in the US.
• Fully remote service available: Everything is handled digitally via email and WhatsApp. You don't need to visit our office unless you prefer to—ideal for part-time residents or absentee property owners.
• Transparent pricing in USD or MXN: We quote fixed fees based on your situation. Monthly packages start at $150 USD for simple cases. No hidden charges, no surprise invoices.
• CPA credentials and SAT authorization: Our team includes Certified Public Accountants (CPC) registered with the Mexican tax authority and the Instituto Mexicano de Contadores Públicos (IMCP).

Living in Cozumel as a US or Canadian expat comes with real tax obligations that go beyond simply filing a return in your home country. Here is a plain-English overview of what expats in Quintana Roo need to know about Mexican taxes:

• Mexican tax residency: If you spend more than 183 days per calendar year in Mexico, you are considered a Mexican tax resident and must report your worldwide income to the SAT—not just your Mexican-source income. This surprises many expats who assumed only local income mattered.
• The Mexico-US Tax Treaty: The 1994 treaty between Mexico and the United States prevents the same income from being taxed in both countries. It provides foreign tax credits, reduced withholding rates on dividends and interest, and specific rules for pensions and Social Security. Proper application of the treaty can significantly reduce your total tax burden.
• FBAR and FATCA reporting: If you have Mexican bank accounts, you may be required to file an FBAR (FinCEN 114) with the US Treasury if your aggregate foreign accounts exceed $10,000 at any point during the year. Form 8938 may also apply if your foreign assets exceed $50,000. These are US obligations—we coordinate the Mexican documentation your US accountant needs.
• Rental property income: If you own property in Cozumel and receive rental income through Airbnb, VRBO, or direct rentals, that income is Mexican-source and must be declared to the SAT regardless of where it is deposited. Expenses like maintenance, utilities, HOA fees, and property management are deductible.
• Fideicomiso property ownership: Many foreign-owned properties in Cozumel are held through a bank trust (fideicomiso). Owning property this way does not change your tax obligations on rental income—you still need an RFC and must declare income generated by the property.
• Selling property in Mexico: Capital gains from selling property in Mexico are taxable in Mexico and must also be reported in the US. Proper planning before the sale—including use of the primary residence exclusion if applicable—can reduce the tax significantly.

Every expat situation is different. In your free consultation, we review your income sources, residency status, and assets in Mexico to give you a clear picture of your obligations and options.

Pricing depends on your situation as an expat or business owner. Here are our transparent rates so you can plan ahead—no hidden fees, no surprises:

• Simple expat (one property, rental income only): $150–200 USD/month. Includes monthly SAT filings, rental income tracking, platform retention reconciliation, and annual tax return. Most common scenario for Airbnb owners in Cozumel.
• Business owner with payroll (up to 5 employees): $400–600 USD/month. Includes full monthly accounting, SAT filings, payroll processing, IMSS/INFONAVIT, and financial statements. Covers dive shops, restaurants, retail, and service businesses.
• Complex expat (multiple entities or countries): $600–800 USD/month. For clients with multiple properties, a Mexican company and foreign income, or US-Mexico treaty optimization across multiple income streams.
• Annual tax return only (one-time): $500–1,500 USD depending on complexity. For expats who handle their own monthly bookkeeping but need professional annual return preparation.
• RFC and e.firma registration (one-time): $250–400 USD. Includes all document preparation, SAT appointment management in Cozumel, and follow-up until your RFC and e.firma are active. See our RFC registration service for foreigners.

All packages include a free initial consultation, English communication throughout, and fully remote service via WhatsApp and email. Contact us for an exact quote based on your situation.