Living abroad does not remove you from the reach of U.S. financial rules. In this episode, Robert and Janice break down how tax reporting requirements, banking policy changes, and estate planning shifts can still affect Americans overseas. Through simple stories and practical guidance, they explain why U.S. legislation and regulatory changes can ripple into everyday life abroad.

This is not political commentary. It is a clear, educational look at how to stay aware, avoid surprises, and protect yourself from costly mistakes as an American living internationally.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How U.S. rules still follow your passport even when you live abroad
• Why certain local investments can trigger extra U.S. paperwork (like PFIC)
• How to track foreign bank accounts and avoid missing reporting thresholds
• Why legacy/estate plans need regular review when U.S. exemptions change
• Five red-flag phrases that should make you pause and verify

Action steps you can take today:

• Make a one-page list of your local funds and ask if any require U.S. forms
• Set a monthly calendar reminder to snapshot all your account balances
• Track the high-water mark across all foreign accounts
• Add a reminder to review your will/trust when U.S. thresholds change
• Download the no-stress checklist from our website and start your U.S. filing folder

Links & Resources
Visit us at Rethink Expats
Questions? hello@rethinkexpats.com
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Disclaimer: Rethink Expats is an educational program. It does not provide investment, tax, or legal advice. Listeners should consult licensed professionals before making financial decisions. Opinions are our own, based on experience in the global financial industry.

• (00:00:00) - Intro
• (00:00:43) - When Politics Travels With You
• (00:01:26) - Three Areas That Affect Americans Abroad
• (00:01:45) - Story 1: Local Funds & PFIC
• (00:02:58) - Action Step – Investment List
• (00:03:28) - Story 2: Bank Account Thresholds
• (00:04:09) - Action Step - Monthly Snapshot
• (00:04:38) - Story 3: Changing Estate Tax Goalposts
• (00:05:24) - Questions to Ask About Your Plan
• (00:05:57) - Five Red Flag Phrases
• (00:06:44) - No-Stress Checklist
• (00:07:48) - Final Thoughts