Episodes

  • 56. Losing Someone is Hard and Navigating Cross-Border Inheritance Taxes Doesn’t Have to Be: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes | From The Trenches with James Boyle

    56. Losing Someone is Hard and Navigating Cross-Border Inheritance Taxes Doesn’t Have to Be: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes | From The Trenches with James Boyle
    Sep 3 2025
    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 persons. The crucial importance of filing Form 3520 to avoid severe IRS penalties. Complications with Trusts and Offshore Bonds Issues with UK-centric advice for US persons. Potential tax problems with foreign trusts and passive foreign investment companies (PFICs). Roth IRA Conversions Explanation of Roth IRA conversions and their benefits. Potential pitfalls like affecting healthcare premiums and tax brackets. New considerations following recent legislative changes. Importance of a Cross-Border Tax Advisor Benefits of having a qualified tax advisor to navigate international tax intricacies and offer valuable US tax help. 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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    38 mins
  • 55. Statutes of Limitations & Tax Compliance: Are You Really Ready to File? | Ask An Expert with Virginia La Torre Jeker

    55. Statutes of Limitations & Tax Compliance: Are You Really Ready to File? | Ask An Expert with Virginia La Torre Jeker
    Aug 20 2025
    "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: Tax statutes of limitations and their implications on cross-border taxpayers. The consequences of missing forms and how it may leave tax returns perpetually open for IRS examination. Denaturalization and its potential tax implications. The importance of accurately filing foreign information returns and how failing to do so can result in penalties. 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.
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    55 mins
  • 54: A Story Of Good Intentions, Bad Investments, And Why Doing “Some Research” Isn’t Enough When You're Living Between Tax Systems. | From The Trenches With James Boyle

    54: A Story Of Good Intentions, Bad Investments, And Why Doing “Some Research” Isn’t Enough When You're Living Between Tax Systems. | From The Trenches With James Boyle
    Aug 6 2025
    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.
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    49 mins
  • 53. How The UK’s Statutory Residence Test Works, And How You Can Stay Compliant | Ask An Expert with Aidan Grant

    53. How The UK’s Statutory Residence Test Works, And How You Can Stay Compliant | Ask An Expert with Aidan Grant
    Jul 23 2025
    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.
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    57 mins
  • 52. A Real Doozy | From The Trenches with James Boyle

    52. A Real Doozy | From The Trenches with James Boyle
    Jul 9 2025
    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.
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    49 mins
  • 51. What To Do With Your UK Pensions Once You Settle In The US: Maximise The Potential And Avoid The Landmines | Ask An Expert with Holly Caulder

    51. What To Do With Your UK Pensions Once You Settle In The US: Maximise The Potential And Avoid The Landmines | Ask An Expert with Holly Caulder
    Jun 25 2025
    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.
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    49 mins
  • 50. Turning Market Volatility Into Tax Savings - 50th Episode Special | From The Trenches with James Boyle

    50. Turning Market Volatility Into Tax Savings - 50th Episode Special | From The Trenches with James Boyle
    Jun 11 2025
    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.
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    41 mins
  • 49. Everything You Need To Know About Tax Compliance – From An IRS Veteran | Ask An Expert with Dan Price

    49. Everything You Need To Know About Tax Compliance – From An IRS Veteran | Ask An Expert with Dan Price
    May 28 2025
    “The US system of tax reporting and FBAR reporting is exceedingly complex, and materially differs from the reporting requirements in most other countries in the Western world.” So says Dan Price, my guest on this week’s Ask An Expert show. That’s why there’s a high chance of non-compliance if you’re an expat in the US, and why you need to hear this week’s episode. Dan is a distinguished tax attorney, two years into running his own firm but with almost 20 years of experience at the IRS Office of Chief Counsel. While there he established programs designed to aid individuals in becoming tax compliant, and covered both criminal and civil IRS audits. He knows his stuff, so it’s a privilege to have him on the show to take us behind the scenes at the IRS and give you expert advice on staying tax compliant. We talk about: · The cost of compliance for middle-class tax payers. What qualifies as middle-class? And what are the costs of being in non-compliance? Hint: they’re significant. · How to streamline your filing with the IRS. As Dan explains, there are myriad systems and procedures in place to catch wilful non-compliance. You can’t beat the algorithm, so don’t try. · The difference between true ignorance, or wilful blindness, and knowingly ignoring tax obligations. if you're an expat or an immigrant and you came here mid-career, there's a very good chance you're in some form of non-compliance. Don't bury your head in the sand. It's very possible the IRS already has information about you and it might one day catch up with you. There are solutions, palatable solutions, as you’ll hear in this episode. For more information on Daniel N Price LLC, visit pricetaxlaw.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.
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    43 mins