If I am US citizen working abroad, and qualify as a bonafide resident abroad, I know I need to file form 2555 to claim foreign income exclusion. But I am also required to file 1040 to claim the exclusion. 1040 requires that W-2 be attached. However, I don't get w-2 from the foreign company with whom I work broad, though I get pay slips. So what happens if I don't have and don't attach W-2 to my 1040?

U.S. citizens and green card holders (i.e. resident aliens) have a continuing obligation to file U.S. tax returns while living abroad. Whether these individuals have to pay U.S. taxes depends on the tax breaks under the law.

A U.S. citizen who takes up bona fide residence in a foreign county can exclude a certain amount of earned income. In 2007 the exclusion was $85,700 and in 2008 will be $87,600, as it is adjusted for inflation each year (note it is not adjusted for the weakening dollar.) To claim the exclusion, you should attach Form 2555 or 2555-EZ (if applicable) to your Form 1040.

Individual taxpayers are required to complete their Form 1040s on a calendar-year basis. Accordingly, you will need to report your wages on a different basis than that provided by your employer.

Figure your wages from Jan. 1, 2007 through Dec. 31, 2007 when submitting your 2007 tax return. You do not need to attach a Form W-2 to prove your wages; generally Form W-

You do not attach W-2 for foreign employer.