In this episode of the Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, Evelyn welcomes John Apuzzo, an international tax leader and partner at MGO, to discuss cross-border tax strategies and financial planning for businesses and individuals navigating international taxation. Originally from Canada and now based in California, John shares his journey in international tax and his passion for simplifying complex tax structures for his clients.
John has over 25 years of experience in public accounting, having worked at major firms across multiple countries. He specializes in corporate tax planning, international tax restructuring, business valuations, and helping high-net-worth individuals and businesses manage cross-border financial complexities. With extensive expertise in U.S. and Canadian tax systems, John provides valuable insights into tax treaties, restructuring strategies, and navigating the ever-changing global tax landscape.
Links to Find John:
- LinkedIn: John Apuzzo | LinkedIn
- Website: MGO CPA
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Here are the key points from Evelyn Ackah’s podcast:
During the conversation, Evelyn and John dive into the unique challenges immigrants and businesses face when moving between Canada and the U.S., including key differences in tax structures, compliance issues, and strategic planning to minimize tax burdens. They also discuss MGO’s approach to serving global clients and the firm’s growth beyond its initial focus on the cannabis industry to broader international tax consulting.
John’s Background and Journey into International Tax
- Born and raised in Montreal to Italian parents, John holds three citizenships and understands the complexities of cross-border taxation firsthand.
- He began his career teaching tax law in Canada before obtaining his U.S. CPA and moving to California, where he planned to stay temporarily but ended up building a long-term career.
- John’s passion for tax planning grew from studying court cases and seeing innovative tax strategies in action.
MGO’s International Tax Services and Growth
- MGO is a rapidly expanding accounting firm in the U.S. with expertise in cannabis industry auditing and international tax consulting.
- John was brought on to expand MGO’s international tax practice, helping businesses and individuals navigate complex tax structures worldwide.
- The firm collaborates with foreign offices and tax professionals to ensure clients receive comprehensive, cross-border tax solutions.
Common Tax Challenges for Immigrants and Businesses Moving Between Canada and the U.S.
- Many clients assume the tax systems in Canada and the U.S. are similar, but key differences exist, such as provincial vs. state-level taxation.
- The U.S. has more fragmented state and federal tax policies, while Canada’s tax system is more aligned between provinces and the federal government.
- Understanding tax residency rules, foreign income reporting requirements, and structuring businesses efficiently are critical for compliance and minimizing tax liabilities.
Tax Treaties, Regulatory Changes, and Business Considerations
- The podcast touches on changes in tax treaties and regulatory shifts, including new tariffs and digital taxes.
- John emphasizes the importance of staying updated on evolving tax laws and ensuring businesses take proactive steps in structuring their operations.
- He advises businesses to prioritize tax planning before making immigration decisions to avoid costly restructuring later.
MGO’s Client-Centric Approach to Tax Planning
- John offers a personalized approach to tax consulting, starting with an initial consultation to assess a client’s needs and whether they’re the right fit for MGO’s services.
- He works closely with clients to develop tailored tax structures, narrowing down the best options and guiding them through implementation.
- His team collaborates with legal and financial professionals to provide holistic tax solutions for businesses and individuals operating internationally.
- For smaller businesses and startups, John acts as a fractional tax director, supporting them until they are ready to bring on an in-house tax professional.
Final Thoughts and How to Contact John Apuzzo
- John’s goal is to simplify international tax complexities for his clients, ensuring they make informed financial decisions.
- He believes in fostering long-term relationships with clients, helping them grow and eventually transition to independent tax management.
- Listeners can reach out to John via email at japuzzo@mgo.com or by phone at (949) 838-5668 for tax consultations and advisory services.
John’s expertise and passion for helping businesses and individuals navigate international tax complexities shine through in this engaging and insightful episode. If you’re a business owner or individual dealing with cross-border tax issues, this conversation provides valuable guidance on structuring your financial affairs effectively.
About Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah
Evelyn Ackah is the Founder and Managing Lawyer at Ackah Business Immigration Law. With offices in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver, we work with individuals and business owners from all over the world who want to cross borders seamlessly. For more information on immigration to Canada or the United States, Ask Evelyn Ackah at Ackah Business Immigration Law today at (587) 854‑3821 or email Evelyn directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.
The Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, hosted by Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah, was named the #1 Best Canada Immigration Podcast in 2023 by Feedspot.