Norman Chait

We have been asked this question many times, especially by US citizens living in Israel who have assets in the US: “Can I use a US power of attorney in Israel?” Some are getting on in years and want to make sure that family members can look after their affairs, when they are no longer

As financial advisors to US expats in Israel, we often get questions about how to transfer money internationally. Our guidance may apply to expats or Americans abroad who have relocated to many different countries. But first, we’ve written these blogs about moving to and living in Israel which you may enjoy. Immigrating to Israel A

People have asked us whether they can keep their US bank accounts and brokerage accounts while living abroad. Getting your accounts closed is a real risk – so here’s what you need to know about brokerage accounts for non-US residents. Let’s divide our response into two separate parts:  US citizens living abroad, and; Non-U.S. citizens

The United States takes a dim view on citizens who try to avoid taxes and/or hide assets overseas. These laws were formulated primarily to clamp down on criminal activity, for example drug dealers, tax avoiders and terrorists.  Nevertheless, ordinary citizens sometime find themselves impacted for non-compliance regarding reporting of foreign assets. Yes, you can be

In this blog we’ll get into the implications of selling a house in Israel as a US Citizen. What is the possible impact on your finances, taxes, etc.? We’re about to get into that – but first, I’ve written these blogs about moving to and living in Israel which you may enjoy as well: Immigrating

Here are some thoughts about investing abroad for US expats, Americans living abroad, and others who may be moving overseas. This guide may teach you what kinds of accounts you can use, based upon where you live, and your citizenship. Pay careful attention because knowing this information may help you reduce unwanted taxes. Before we

I am a US citizen, who runs a US-based investment advisory boutique, and who now lives in Israel. Rather than write a more financially-oriented piece, I’d like to share my personal experience on living in Israel as an American. The goal here is not to encourage you to pack your bags and immigrate tomorrow, but

The current market and economic focus has been on higher interest rates, higher inflation and the more recent sell-off in stock and bonds. One thing that has been overlooked is the stronger dollar vs shekel, what it means for those who hold Israeli shekels, many of whom are expats or Americans living abroad. But first,

For Americans living abroad, saving for retirement has an added level of complexity. This blog discusses a few concepts that are useful to know about how US expats should use IRAs to fund their retirement strategies. Before we get started, we are financial advisors serving US expats, with a focus on Israel. We’ve written these

US Social Security for expats – do you qualify? Americans living outside the United States have asked whether they are eligible to receive social security benefits. US Social Security for expats is a complex subject, so let us focus on some key general principles to assist you in considering how to maximize your benefits. Before

Many times I am asked about the experience people tend to have living as an expat in Israel. This blog is about my observations and experiences both as a two-time immigrant to Israel, and also in listening to and learning from the experiences of others. Before we get started, I’ve written these blogs about moving

Welcome to 2022. We believe this is going to be a year where many different geopolitical, economic, market and health outcomes are possible. That makes it a good time to assess the various risk factors that affect us all, including the question of whether Americans abroad should own funds that are not domiciled in the US. We’ll

Here are some  things to consider regarding financial planning for year end for US citizens living abroad.  2021 ending on an unsettling note As we end 2021, we are beset with many challenges; first and foremost, one’s health and well-being. The new Omicron variant has created much uncertainty. At the time of writing, my impression

As a US citizen living outside the US, one has to take US and local tax and reporting consequences into account when planning your investment strategy, and what type of investment vehicles to focus on. Here are five key points about expat investing that you may want to be aware of. Before we begin, please

Retiring in Israel brings with it a host of questions. In this blog we will discuss the major concepts you may need to become familiar with if you are a US expat looking to retire in Israel. But first, make sure you download our checklist of what to know if you are relocating to Israel.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RqHE89TJZc

Immigrating to Israel is a transition that encompasses many touch points – financial, psychological, cultural, lifestyle, etc.  Here are some thoughts for those of you who intend to make Aliyah (immigrate to Israel), or those of you who are Israeli-born US expat citizens who plan to move back to Israel (Toshavim Hozrim). Before we get started, if you