I signed 1099 forms ... at least that's what I think THEY were. There were so many papers it was easy to become confused.

Thank you, Karen. Yes, I know about the question on the IRS tax return form but this is my first time to learn of a foreign bank requiring signatures on an American tax form! This has not been the case in any country where I have lived (including, currently, Thailand). Just to be sure I have got it right: Your French bank reports your interest income to American tax authorities?

Robert: I am more than happy to do so. Because I am an American citizen, a French bank is required to report any interest I may make in a French (or foreign) bank. There's that tiny box to check on your US IRS tax form if you have foreign bank accounts. Now are the days of transparency. K

Karen, in your recent article, "It was one of those Days", you mentioned having signed USA tax forms when opening an account in a French bank. Can you explain, please?