Latest Articles and Books:

• Efficacy and Tax Consequences of U.S. TOD and POD Accounts for American Expatriates

  This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal validity, procedural requirements, and complex tax implications of U.S.-based Transfer on Death (TOD) and Payable on Death (POD) accounts for United States citizens who reside and pass away abroad. Read more …

• A Financial Guide for Americans in Germany

For American expatriates in Germany, the dream of living and working abroad comes with a unique and often confusing set of financial challenges. You're not just creating a new life; you're navigating a maze of dual tax laws and conflicting regulations that can seem set up to punish even the most careful saver. How do you plan for your future when U.S. law guides you toward certain investments, while European rules prevent you from accessing them? Read more …

• French Inheritance tax for U.S. Citizens Resident in France

  The cornerstone of French inheritance tax law is its residence-based approach to taxation. Under Article 750 ter of the French General Tax Code (Code Général des Impôts or CGI), if an individual is considered domiciled in France for tax purposes at the time of death, their entire worldwide estate becomes subject to French inheritance tax. This principle is absolute in its scope; it encompasses all movable assets (such as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds) and immovable assets (real estate), regardless of their physical location. Consequently, assets held in the United States—be it a brokerage account in New York, a bank account in California, or real property in Florida—are brought into the French tax base. Read more …

• The Expat Investor's Playbook: A Concise Guide for Americans Living in France

  Investing as a U.S. citizen or green card holder in France presents a unique set of challenges driven by the intersection of two distinct tax systems. The United States taxes its citizens on their worldwide income, regardless of where they live, while France taxes its residents on their global earnings. This guide provides a condensed overview of the essential principles, critical pitfalls, and strategic solutions for building a compliant and efficient investment portfolio while living in France. Read more …