IRS Audit-Proofing Tips for Offshore Brazil Portfolios
Key Takeaways IRS audit risk increases materially with offshore exposure, especially in complex jurisdictions like Brazil. Most audit failures stem from documentation gaps, inconsistent reporting, and weak economic substance—not from aggressive returns. Proper structure, contemporaneous records, and reconciled FX reporting dramatically reduce audit friction. Brazil-specific nuances (dividends, capital gains, FX translation, local accounts) require tailored compliance workflows. An audit-proof approach is proactive, systematic, and governance-driven—not reactive. Executive Summary Offshore investing has become mainstream for U.S. investors seeking diversification, yield, and growth. Brazil, with its scale, income opportunities, and sophisticated capital markets, often features prominently in these portfolios. Yet offshore exposure—particularly to emerging markets—also increases scrutiny from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Contrary to popular belief, IRS audits ...