Frequently Asked Questions

Find clear answers to common questions on taxes, investments, and financial planning for expats navigating life abroad.

Can you help me plan charitable giving or philanthropy across borders?

Yes. We assist clients in developing charitable giving strategies that align with both their personal values and tax goals. Whether donating through U.S. foundations, Israeli nonprofits, or international organizations, we ensure your philanthropy is structured efficiently and compliantly.

Do you provide succession planning for family businesses or investments?

Yes. For clients who own businesses or investment properties in the U.S. or Israel, we provide strategic guidance on succession planning, ownership transfer, and tax-efficient transitions. We work with accountants and attorneys to protect your business interests for the next generation.

Can you advise on inheritance laws in Israel?

We are familiar with the fundamentals of Israeli inheritance law and how it interacts with U.S. estate documents. While we are not attorneys, we collaborate with Israeli legal professionals to ensure your estate plan respects both jurisdictions’ legal and cultural requirements.

Do you help reduce estate taxes for dual citizens?

Yes. Through careful planning, we can help structure your estate to minimize exposure to U.S. and Israeli estate taxes. This may include the use of trusts, strategic gifting, or asset restructuring to take advantage of applicable treaties and exemptions.

Can you assist with estate planning that covers both U.S. and Israeli assets?

Absolutely. Cross-border estate planning is one of our specialties. We coordinate with estate attorneys in both countries to create wills and trusts that comply with local laws, minimize taxation, and ensure your assets transfer smoothly to your heirs. Our goal is to preserve your legacy and protect your family’s future.

Do you help with U.S. pension planning for retirees in Israel?

Yes. We assist in structuring pension income for maximum efficiency. This includes advising on distribution timing, currency conversion, and the impact of the U.S.–Israel Tax Treaty. We work to ensure your pension benefits are accessible, predictable, and properly coordinated with your Israeli income sources.

Can you help me decide whether to take Social Security early or later?

Yes. We evaluate your full financial picture—life expectancy, income needs, and tax implications—to determine the optimal time to claim Social Security benefits. For Americans living in Israel, we also consider how benefits are taxed locally and how they fit within your broader retirement income strategy.

Do you handle required minimum distributions (RMDs) for U.S. accounts?

Yes. We manage RMDs carefully to ensure compliance with IRS rules while minimizing the tax impact on your overall income. When you reside in Israel, we coordinate these distributions with local tax professionals to ensure they’re properly reported and taxed under both jurisdictions.

Can you help me estimate how much I’ll need to retire comfortably in Israel?

Yes. We perform a comprehensive cost-of-living analysis based on your desired location, lifestyle, and family situation in Israel. We then factor in currency fluctuations, healthcare costs, and taxation to determine a realistic, personalized retirement target that supports financial independence and peace of mind.

How do you create retirement plans for Americans living in Israel?

We build customized retirement strategies that integrate both U.S. and Israeli financial systems. This includes managing income from Social Security, pensions, and retirement accounts while coordinating with Israeli banking, taxation, and healthcare considerations. Our goal is to create a smooth, sustainable income stream that supports your lifestyle throughout retirement.

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