Expat Finances

Managing money across two countries gets complicated fast. You’re dealing with Australian tax obligations, possibly US tax requirements if you’re American, and trying not to lose thousands to terrible exchange rates.

I cover opening Australian bank accounts from overseas (yes, you can do this before you move), transferring money without getting destroyed by fees, estimating realistic cost of living for families of four, getting your Tax File Number, understanding Superannuation (that 9.5% employer contribution you can cash out when you leave), and claiming Medicare levy exemptions when you’re not eligible for Medicare.

For American expats specifically, I break down filing requirements for US taxes while living abroad, FATCA and FBAR obligations that trip everyone up, and how Australian superannuation affects your US tax return. Real numbers, actual costs, and how to avoid expensive mistakes that nobody warns you about.

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