Need Advice on Back Taxes as a Green Card Holder Who Lived Abroad
Background
I've been a Green Card holder since late 2013 and lived abroad from 2015 to 2019 using re-entry permits. I filed my U.S. taxes for 2013 but didn't for the years 2014 to 2016. At the time, the tax treaty indicated that I had $0 to declare, so I didn't think I needed to file anything. I've come to realize this was an oversight.
Current Situation
I've been diligent about filing and paying my taxes since returning to the U.S. However, I'm aware that USCIS doesn't just ask for the past 5 years of tax records; they ask whether you've filed allyour taxes. This puts me in a tight spot because I didn't file for those years (2014-2016) while living abroad.
Complications
Lack of Documentation: I have no access to any paperwork or records for the years 2014 to 2016.
Tax Software Limitations: It seems I can't just go back and file those years using TurboTax or other common software.
Foreign Tax Info: I also have no way to access or recover any tax information from abroad at this point.
Questions
Legal Implications: What are the potential consequences of not having filed for those years, especially in the context of maintaining my Green Card status?
Filing Retroactively: Is it possible to file back taxes for those years without the necessary documents? If so, how?
Professional Help: Would it be advisable to consult a tax professional who specializes in expatriate taxation or immigration issues?
USCIS Interaction: How should I handle questions from USCIS about this oversight? Is it better to be proactive and address this issue before it comes up during any immigration proceedings?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I'm really uncertain about how to navigate this situation. Thank you in advance for your input!