81. Moving to Europe as an American: The Tax Mistakes That Can Cost You Dearly

For Americans moving abroad, the dream of a new life in Europe can quickly become complicated by US tax rules, foreign reporting requirements, estate planning mismatches, and costly investment mistakes. From buying property in France, to opening a business in Spain, to holding foreign mutual funds or trusts that no longer work overseas, the consequences of poor planning can be severe and expensive to unwind.  For those considering moving to America or moving to the US in the future, many of these same cross-border challenges apply in reverse, making early planning essential regardless of direction.  Richard Taylor – dual UK/US citizen and Chartered Financial Planner – is joined by Christine Alexis Concepcion – international tax attorney and Managing Partner at Concepcion Global PLLC – to discuss what US citizens and green card holders need to know before relocating abroad, especially to Europe. They explore ongoing US tax obligations, the risks of investing or structuring assets incorrectly, and why trying to “figure it out later” often leads to significantly higher costs.  Drawing on real client scenarios, they highlight how decisions around foreign investments, business advise, and international wealth structuring can create long-term tax exposure if not handled correctly. They also explain why working with a qualified wealth advisor and US tax help specialists is critical for navigating cross border complexity.  In this episode of Expat Wealth, Richard and Christine discuss:  How Americans and green card holders remain subject to US tax filing obligations on worldwide income and assets, even after moving abroad.  Why forming a foreign company, investing in a foreign business, or buying non-US mutual funds without planning can trigger punitive tax treatment and complex reporting requirements.  How trusts, foreign property purchases, and cross-border estate planning can create major problems in Europe if not reviewed before a move.  Why proactive planning with US and local-country specialists can reduce costs, protect long-term wealth, and help expats access the full benefits of international wealth planning.  –  Expat Wealth is supported by Plan First Wealth. Plan First Wealth is a Registered Investment Advisor serving fellow expatriates and immigrants living across the US on matters such as retirement planning, investment management, tax planning and non-US asset management.  https://planfirstwealth.com/  –  Expat Wealth 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.    ABOUT RICHARD:  Richard Taylor is a British expat, dual citizen (UK & US). Originally from Bolton, he now lives in Greenwich, CT, where Plan First Wealth has its head office.  As the firm’s leader, Richard launched Taylor & Taylor, now Plan First Wealth, and continues to fuel the firm’s growth. Richard is a Chartered Financial Planner (UK – CII) in addition to holding the IMC (CFA UK) and Series 65 (US – FINRA).  Connect with Richard on LinkedIn