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Changing Domicile as a Taxpayer

By Argent Wealth Management, LLC on December 13, 2023

When attempting to change domiciles, it is important to remember there are two tests necessary to not be a taxpayer in a state: the physical presence test and domicile test.

Physical Presence Test:

  • Your residency is determined by the number of days you spend in a state.
  • If you spend 183 days or more in the new state, you are considered a taxpayer.
  • One minute spent in a state is considered a full day.
  • Vacation:
    • If you leave from State A to spend two weeks in Europe, those two weeks are counted as days spent in State A.
    • Remember to leave from state in which you want to be considered a resident.

Domicile Test:

  • This is a factual determination based on where you intend to make your permanent home.
  • If you want to change domicile from State A to State B, you need to show you’ve abandoned State A.
  • Key points:
    • Do you still have your familial home in State A?
    • Do you see new doctors, trainers, veterinarians, etc. in State B?
    • Are you registered to vote in State B?
    • Have you dropped your memberships in State A and joined new ones in State B?
    • Is your personal property in State B?
    • Do you spend holidays in State B?

Important facts examined during an audit:

  • Where you spent each day throughout the year
  • Any real estate taxes paid
  • All lessor and lessee agreements
  • Credit Card statements, phone records including call origination logs
  • Car registrations, insurance, and EZ Pass receipts
  • Flight logs
  • Breakdown of income by state
  • Estate documents
  • Medical Insurance Cards, records of physicians, etc.
  • Voter registration

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