Qualify For Form 2555?

[SueBaby]

Client went abroad only for 180 days in Africa; wants to use form 2555, but in Tax Book page 14-13 says 330 days in 12 months. His W2 is way over $200,000 with nothing held out. He also went to Japan for only 30 days with another W2.

He doesn't qualify for form 2555---right? Wish so cause he owes something awful if not.
Thanks

[Uncle Sam]

Qualify for 2555 exclusion

Looks like from you describe - he doesn't qualify for the exclusion -if he doesn't meet at LEAST the 330 days within a 12 month period - and it doesn't have to be a calendar year - he doesn't qualify.

[David1980]

He can also pick his 12-month period. Did he go back in 2009? It's possible to use a December 2008 - December 2009 qualifying period. Or if he was there in 2007, he could use a January 2007 - January 2008 period. Any 12-month period that starts or ends in 2008.

If he doesn't have any qualifying period, at least he can still do the foreign tax credit.

[SueBaby]

He can also pick his 12-month period. Did he go back in 2009? It's possible to use a December 2008 - December 2009 qualifying period. Or if he was there in 2007, he could use a January 2007 - January 2008 period. Any 12-month period that starts or ends in 2008.

If he doesn't have any qualifying period, at least he can still do the foreign tax credit.

No it was a one time thing for him; but can I put all on line 47 on the 1040 and not use the form 1116?

[BP.]

No it was a one time thing for him; but can I put all on line 47 on the 1040 and not use the form 1116?

No, but check your TTB p. 11-11 for your options.