We discuss the top five blind spots that foreign nationals often encounter in their cross-border finances.

We cover misunderstandings of your individual financial situation, the risks of false economies, the need to report foreign assets, and more. 

We also touch on cultural adjustment and the importance of being prepared for potential changes in residency/immigration status.

Takeaways

• Don't assume your financial situation is the same as others

• False economy - Pay for professional services

• Your cultural background significantly influences financial decisions.

• Comparing financial systems between countries is just bad

• Foreign assets must be reported to avoid severe penalties.

• Estate planning is essential, regardless of wealth.

• Understanding U.S. tax obligations is crucial for foreign nationals

• Preparation for potential changes in residency is vital. A comprehensive checklist can help plan for cross-border transitions.

Chapters  

• 00:00 Identifying Blind Spots in Cross-Border Finances

• 03:00 Understanding False Economies in Financial Decisions

• 05:51 Cultural Adjustments and Financial Planning

• 09:05 The Importance of Reporting Foreign Assets

• 11:55 Estate Planning Essentials for Foreign Nationals

• 15:11 Preparing for Potential Changes in Residency (immigration status)

Episode Links and Resources

• Ep 45: What Is English For "Streamlined Filing Procedures

• Ep 34: What Is English For "FBAR"

• Top 5 Things To Know About FBAR Filing

• IRS FATCA Thresholds

We discuss the complexities surrounding FBAR and FATCA, two acronyms that often cause confusion and concern for foreign-born individuals.

We explain the importance of compliance with these regulations, the filing requirements for U.S. citizens and U.S. tax residents (includes foreign nationals on work visas), and the potential penalties for non-compliance.

And yes, the IRS knows about your overseas assets. We also cover the amnesty programs available for those who have missed reporting their foreign accounts.

Takeaways  

• FBAR and FATCA are crucial for foreign-born individuals.

• Filing the FBAR form is mandatory if accounts exceed $10K.

• FATCA requires reporting of foreign accounts to the IRS.

• Banks report account information to the IRS under FATCA.

• Non-compliance can lead to significant penalties.

• Amnesty programs exist for those who missed filings.

• IRS is aware of foreign accounts through intergovernmental agreements.

• Rectifying non-compliance is possible and essential (But don't DIY)

Chapters  

00:00 Understanding FBAR and FATCA

03:16 The Importance of Compliance

07:57 Filing Requirements for U.S. Citizens Abroad

12:25 Amnesty Programs and Penalties

14:56 Rectifying Non-Compliance

Episode Links & Resources

Ep 45: What Is English For "Streamlined Filing Procedures”?

Ep 34: What Is English For "FBAR"?

Top 5 Things To Know About FBAR Filing

IRS FATCA Thresholds.

In this episode, we discuss PFICs (Passive Foreign Investment Companies) and the dangers of investing in them.

We start by defining them with some examples and then discuss the tax compliance requirements and the potential penalties for non-compliance. We include financial planning considerations like foreign exchange and repatriation. 

We explain why we want to get a detailed idea of any PFICs clients may have when we start working with them on financial planning or tax preparation.

Most of our clients /prospects are not aware that they have PFICs in their overseas portfolio.

We discuss ways of dealing with them, how to stay compliant or get rid of them, and also mention the particular case of those with work visas - who may want to keep the PFICs in their portfolio. 

It's a fun discussion.