Expat Wealth - Cross-Border Financial Advice for Expats in America and Americans Abroad

You need a cross-border advisory team to navigate complex international tax laws before it’s too late. Investing in pre-planning before moving to a new country is crucial to avoid financial pitfalls.

This week, you’ll hear from Holly Caulder - dual-qualified U.S. and U.K. tax advisor at Buzzacott, and Aidan Grant – U.K. tax and estate planning attorney at Collyer Bristow as they unpack the financial logistics of moving between the U.K. and the U.S.

Host Richard Taylor - dual U.K./U.S. citizen and Chartered Financial Planner leads a conversation alongside Holly Caulder and Aidan Grant, delving into the complexities faced by British expats navigating the U.S.-U.K. cross border financial landscape. They explore common planning opportunities and the essential role of a coordinated cross-border advisory team.

In this episode, Richard, Holly & Aidan explore:

More about We’re The Brits In America:

With the right financial advice, landmines that threaten expat wealth can be avoided. Often encountered by U.S. -connected expats, these financial landmines are more numerous, more hazardous, and less understood than almost anywhere else in the world. As a result, non-cross-border professionals, wealth advisors, and even international advisors are often unaware of them. But don’t worry, We're The Brits In America has you covered. 

We're The Brits In America is dedicated to helping ambitious U.S.-connected expats and immigrants navigate those challenges — and thrive. Whether you’ve moved to the U.S. for opportunity or are an American seeking adventure and growth abroad, our job is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to succeed.

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We're The Brits In America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

The consequences of filing your tax return incorrectly, even accidentally, far outweighs the immediate cost you’ll spend on professional advice. Cross-border finances can be confusing; you may be tempted to DIY your tax return, but you’re always better off speaking to a tax advisor.

Host Richard Taylor - dual U.K./U.S. citizen and Chartered Financial Planner – is joined by James Boyle – Lead Financial Planner at Plan First Wealth – to tackle the subject of tax compliance for expatriates. They discuss the complexities that expatriates face, particularly when it comes to cross-border financial planning and seeking specialised expat tax advice.

In this episode of From The Trenches, Richard and James explore:

More about We’re The Brits In America:

With the right financial advice, landmines that threaten expat wealth can be avoided. Often encountered by U.S.-connected expats, these financial landmines are more numerous, more hazardous, and less understood than almost anywhere else in the world. As a result, non-cross border professionals, wealth advisors, and even international advisors are often unaware of them. But don’t worry, We're The Brits In America has you covered.

We're The Brits In America is dedicated to helping ambitious U.S.-connected expats and immigrants navigate those challenges — and thrive. Whether you’ve moved to the U.S. for opportunity, or are an American seeking adventure and growth abroad, our job is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to succeed.

We're The Brits In America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

Building a law career and finding wealth as a UK expat can feel

This week, host Richard Taylor - dual UK/US citizen and Chartered Financial Planner - has a raw and honest conversation with Allan Rooney -

In this episode of Ask An Expert on We’re The Brits In America, Richard Taylor and Alan Rooney give you a detailed look at: 

More about We’re The Brits In America: 

With the right financial advice, landmines that threaten expat wealth can be avoided. Often encountered by US-connected expats, these financial landmines are more numerous, more hazardous, and less understood than almost anywhere else in the world. As a result, non-cross border professionals, wealth advisors, and even international advisors are often unaware of them. But don’t worry, We're The Brits In America has you covered.  

We're The Brits In America is dedicated to helping ambitious U.S.-connected expats and immigrants navigate those challenges — and thrive. Whether you’ve moved to the U.S. for opportunity, or are an American seeking adventure and growth abroad, our job is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to succeed. 

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We're The Brits In America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does

The intricacies of inheritance tax issues are probably the last thing you want to think about after losing someone. We’re making it easier to make financial arrangements for receiving an inheritance after a loved one passes away on this episode of We’re the Brits in America. 

Host Richard Taylor - dual UK/US citizen and Chartered Financial Planner - offers practical advice for expats on navigating these challenges to promote financial security and compliance, including how to avoid the potential pitfalls of Roth IRA conversions. 

In this episode of From the Trenches on We’re the Brits in America, Richard Taylor and James Boyle – Lead Financial Planner at Plan First Wealth - explore:  

Navigating Inheritance for Expats

Challenges when receiving an inheritance from non-US

The crucial importance of filing Form 3520 to avoid severe

Complications with Trusts and Offshore Bonds

Issues with UK-centric advice for US persons.

Potential tax problems with foreign trusts and passive

Roth IRA Conversions

Explanation of Roth IRA conversions and their benefits.

Potential pitfalls like affecting healthcare premiums and

New considerations following recent legislative changes.

Importance of a Cross-Border Tax Advisor

Benefits of having a qualified tax advisor to navigate

More about We’re the Brits in America: 

With the right financial advice, landmines that threaten expat wealth can be avoided. Often encountered by US-connected expats, these financial landmines are more numerous, more hazardous, and less understood than almost anywhere else in the world. As a result, non-cross border professionals, wealth advisors, and even international advisors are often unaware of them. But don’t worry, We're the Brits in America has you covered.  We're the Brits in America is dedicated to helping ambitious U.S.-connected expats and immigrants navigate those challenges — and thrive. Whether you’ve moved to the U.S. for opportunity, or are an American seeking adventure and growth abroad, our job is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to succeed. 

"The IRS can go back over 20 years in certain instances for unfiled returns. We’re not making this stuff up,” warns Virginia La Torre Jeker, a seasoned US international tax attorney with over 40 years of experience and returning guest to the show. Virginia is a member of the New York Bar, specializing in all aspects of international tax and cross-border transactions. In this week’s Ask An Expert, host and founder of Plan First Wealth Richard Taylor talks to Virginia about the best ways to navigate the complexities of US taxation for expats. Do you know what it means for a tax return to be ‘open’? If you don’t, you should. You’ll learn about:

Virginia and Richard stress the importance of informed decision-making in tax filings. Whether you’re an expat, an immigrant to the US, or assisting international families, this episode is a fundamental listen to help you thrive financially and secure your retirement.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

Richard and James are back with more cautionary financial tales. Richard Taylor, founder of Plan First Wealth, recently spoke to a connection who “had done a bit of research, learned that mutual funds were a problem, hadn't learned what PFICs were, and switched out of a mutual fund into an investment trust... thinking he’d dodged the problem, but in fact he’d gone from one PFIC to another.” What was the result? And why is it such a problem? You’ll find out in this episode of From The Trenches.

Richard and James share real-world stories that highlight how easy it is to fall into tax traps when dealing with cross-border investments, especially for UK expats living in the US. You’ll hear how well-meaning financial decisions can backfire without the right context or professional advice, particularly around things like ISAs, investment trusts, PFIC reporting, and the long-term implications of missing forms like 3520 and 8621.

Plus, expert advice and insight into retirement readiness. Richard and James explores what changes when you stop earning, why even successful DIY investors often hand over the reins, and how complex planning becomes when you're managing assets across two tax systems. If you're a Brit in America navigating retirement, tax compliance, or residency decisions, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes, understand the emotional weight of retirement planning, and see the real value of cross-border financial advice.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

The UK has moved to a residency-based tax system, and the rules aren’t just complex, they’re strict. Whether you’re planning to return home full-time or just thinking about splitting your time between the US and the UK, this episode is essential listening.

Richard Taylor is joined by listener favourite and raconteur Aidan Grant – a partner in the tax and trust estate team at Collyer Bristow. Aidan and Richard explore:

·      How the UK’s Statutory Residency Test (SRT) works (and how easy it is to trip over it)

·      The four key ties HMRC uses to determine how many days you can spend in the UK

·      Why pre-arrival tax planning is still critical, even under the new system

·      What happens if you inadvertently trigger UK tax residency

·      When and how to claim split year treatment or treaty relief

·      The four-year ‘foreign income and gains’ regime, and how to use it strategically

·      Why staying under the threshold in early years can protect you from UK inheritance tax down the line

If you're a Brit in America considering a return home, or even just thinking of spending part of the year working in the UK,  this episode could save you a lot of money, time, and stress.

To get more insights like this direct to your inbox, sign up at www.planfirstwealth.com

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

The market has rebounded from a rough April, but that period caused significant emotional stress for both clients and advisors. In these market downturns it’s crucial to put your emotions to one side and stick to your plan. 

What’s happened in June? And we’re only a few days into July but so much has happened there too; Richard Taylor and James Boyle go back into the trenches to unpack it all. 

Plus, a few cautionary tales: Richard has a friend who – for years – has been constantly predicting a catastrophic market crash. As a result his investment plan is needlessly conservative. Another acquaintance tells of his experience with the 2008 market crash; panic selling resulted in the loss of huge returns over the decades. 

Richard and James discuss another investor who made a common mistake, siloing US and UK tax advisors and not giving his advisors on either side the full picture. Despite investing in cross-border advice from one of the better-known tax advisory firms in the business, the client might now face PFIC tax issues in the hundreds of thousands. 

The bottom line: ensure you have the right advisors and they are working together. The unique workings of the US tax system and its state-based rules are confusing for expats – make sure you get the right advice. 

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

If you're an expat of means in America and you don't have a good cross-border team around you - financial, tax, and estate – there’s a high chance you’re in non-compliance. That’s especially true with UK pension holders in the US. 

This week’s Ask An Expert is with Holly Caulder, partner at Buzzacott. Holly specialises in planning and advice solutions for US residents with non-US pensions, shareholders of controlled foreign corporations and beneficiaries of non-US trusts. If this is you, you won’t want to miss this episode. 

The potential landmines are significant, so you’ll hear how Holly and Richard would advise you to:

• Report UK Pensions Correctly in the US

 If you have a UK pension, it must be reported on key US tax forms like the FBAR and Form 8938, even if it’s inactive and no new contributions are being made. Holly stresses that failing to do this can lead to serious IRS penalties.

• Use the US-UK Tax Treaty to Your Advantage

 The US-UK tax treaty can help reduce your tax bill. Filing Form 8833 lets you claim treaty benefits, such as excluding UK pension growth from US tax. Richard points out that doing this every year can save money and avoid trouble.

• Plan Pension Moves Carefully

 Thinking about rolling over your pension or taking a distribution (e.g. transferring to a SIPP)? Talk to a tax advisor first. Holly notes that claiming treaty exemptions early and knowing state tax rules (like in California vs. New York) can prevent surprise taxes. Get advice before making any moves to stay compliant and minimise tax.

If you're enjoying the show, please follow it wherever you’re listening to it now, and consider leaving a 5 star rating and review to help the mission, which is to help expats and immigrants thrive in America. Visit planfirstwealth.com to learn more about our services and connect with Richard Taylor on LinkedIn.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

In a year of economic whiplash, staying invested is easier said than done, particularly when the market drops 20% in ten days. But that’s when the real opportunities appear.

In this special 50th episode, Richard Taylor and James Boyle are back in the trenches to reflect on client behaviour during turbulent times, the emotional traps that investors fall into and the importance of holding your nerve when the pressure is on.

Richard and James break down how to navigate volatility with a clear head and a smart strategy. You’ll hear their advice on how to:

·      Stay invested during downturnsand why resisting the urge to panic can preserve your wealth and even unlock powerful tax advantages.

·      Use tax-loss harvesting to your advantage including a real client example where staying the course led to over $20,000 in carry forward losses to offset future gains.

·      Avoid emotional investing traps and what the infamous (but false) “dead investor” myth still gets right about behaviour and market performance.

·      Watch the economic signals that matter like May’s surprising rally and why upcoming jobs data could shape Fed decisions and market sentiment.

If you're enjoying the show, please follow it wherever you’re listening to it now, and consider leaving a 5 star rating and review to help the mission, which is to help expats and immigrants thrive in America. Visit planfirstwealth.com to learn more about our services and connect with Richard Taylor on LinkedIn.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.

We're the Brits in America is affiliated with Plan First Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Plan First Wealth.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Plan First Wealth does not provide any tax and/or legal advice and strongly recommends that listeners seek their own advice in these areas.