Upcoming Events
June 24 | Private Event | Berlin, Germany
Invitations sent directly to current clients and industry partners. Please contact hello@connectedfinancialplanning.com if you wish to receive more details about our private Berlin event.
September 10 | Private Event | Zurich, Switzerland: US & Swiss Estate Planning Considerations
Stay tuned for more details and registration.
September 24-27 | XYPN Live | Austin, TX | Beyond Borders: Navigating Financial Planning for Globally Mobile Clients
As financial advisors increasingly work with globally mobile clients, they face unique challenges in tax compliance, cross-border investments, and international retirement planning. This interactive roundtable will provide a space for advisors to share insights, ask questions, and discuss best practices for navigating the complexities of financial planning across borders. Topics will include dual taxation pitfalls, foreign account reporting, investment restrictions, and coordinating retirement benefits across jurisdictions. Whether you’re already serving expats or exploring this growing niche, you’ll gain peer-driven insights and practical strategies to better support international clients. Join us to connect, collaborate, and expand your expertise in cross-border financial planning.
Takeaways:
- Learn best practices for serving globally mobile clients, including tax compliance and retirement planning
- Identify common cross-border pitfalls and how to avoid issues like dual taxation and foreign reporting
- Discover how to build a reliable support network of cross-border professionals and resources
Previous Events
June 10 | XYPN, FPA & NAPFA Members: Americans Living Abroad
Whether you're already working with global clients or just getting started, this session will deepen your understanding and equip you with real-world strategies to better support U.S. expats.
Join the Unconventional Living Study Group for an insightful session with Arielle Tucker, Certified Financial Planner™, EA, and founder of Connected Financial Planning. Arielle specializes in helping U.S. citizens navigate the complexities of living abroad, particularly in Europe.
Topics will include:
- Receiving U.S. income while living in Europe
- U.S. expat tax filing obligations and compliance
- Buying property in Europe as a U.S. person
- Planning for retirement abroad and key pitfalls to avoid
June 5 | Strafford: U.S.-Swiss Tax Planning and Traps to Avoid
This CLE/CPE course will provide tax counsel and advisers with a practical guide to issues arising from tax reporting requirements and planning opportunities for U.S. taxpayers with earnings or assets in Switzerland, as well as Swiss citizens with U.S. tax reporting obligations. The panel will discuss U.S. tax law and treaty provisions designed to avoid or mitigate dual taxation, give an overview of Swiss residence and domicile rules, and detail potential treaty benefits.
Description
The U.S. and Switzerland have significant economic and social ties, resulting in a constant flow of cross-border business transactions and citizens migrating between the two countries. Tax counsel and advisers must navigate challenges stemming from the interpretation and enforcement of U.S. and Swiss tax rules to avoid adverse tax liability from either country.
Among the most critical planning challenges for cross-border activities is reconciling the U.S. and Switzerland rules governing residence and domicile. Switzerland domicile rules are complex, and even inadvertent failure to meet filing obligations due to a misapplication of domicile rules can be costly. U.S. tax advisers serving clients with a presence in the U.S. and Switzerland will need to understand the domicile rules to avoid costly tax and penalties.
Another critical planning element is avoiding dual taxation on income and gains. The U.S. has detailed domestic foreign tax credit rules, along with a comprehensive tax treaty with Switzerland that together address most dual taxation concerns, but, as in all international planning, tax advisers must understand the particular provisions to avoid an unpleasant tax bill--or maybe two.
Other areas of concern in U.S.-Switzerland tax planning include the treatment of passive income and tax considerations of cross-border pension ownership, contributions, and withdrawals. Hovering over all these concerns are the extensive U.S. tax reporting requirements imposed on taxpayers with U.S. filing obligations.
April 16 | FPA: Navigating Cross-Border Inheritance & Estate Taxation
Calling all financial planning professionals working with globally mobile clients! This session is ideal for anyone supporting clients with international ties, dual citizenship, or assets in multiple countries.
We’ll cover:
- Planning strategies for cross-border families
- Estate and inheritance tax complexities across jurisdictions
- Real-world case studies from the U.S., Europe, and beyond
- Best practices for coordination with legal and tax professionals abroad
Whether you're a seasoned planner or just starting to see international cases, this session will give you the foundation to better serve clients navigating life across borders.
March 26 | Mastering Your Move to Switzerland: A Step-by-Step Guide for US Citizens & Their Families
This expert-led webinar equips newly arrived US citizens with the essential knowledge needed for a seamless transition to life in Switzerland. Co-hosted by specialists from Alliance Relocation and Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, from Connected Financial Planning, the session covers key relocation steps, including visa options, navigating the competitive Swiss housing market, and integrating into local life. Additionally, attendees will gain insights into critical financial considerations, such as US-Swiss tax obligations, cross-border banking, retirement planning, and budgeting for Switzerland’s cost of living. Our co-host Julia Kaufman has been featured multiple times in HGTV's House Hunters International series for Switzerland.
March 25 | 2025 US Tax Updates: Key Changes & Strategies for Americans Abroad
Stay ahead of upcoming tax changes with this essential update for US expats, featuring Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, and Hannah Nelson of US TAXFS. This session provides a deep dive into filing your 2024 US tax return while preparing for proposed updates in 2025 and beyond. Topics include tax obligations for Americans living abroad, financial planning considerations, and actionable strategies to minimize liabilities and optimize cross-border finances. Don't miss this opportunity to ensure you’re informed and prepared for the evolving tax landscape.
March 20 | Saving for Retirement: Navigating the Swiss Pillar System & Social Security for US Expats
Planning for retirement as a US citizen in Switzerland comes with unique challenges. This webinar explores key differences between the US and Swiss retirement systems, strategies for optimizing savings, and how recent policy changes—such as the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision—can impact U.S. Social Security benefits for expats. Join Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, of Connected Financial Planning and Selim Bucher of TaXperts for expert insights on securing your financial future in Switzerland.
March 4 | DA Germany - 2025 US Tax Webinar for Americans Living Abroad
Are you unsure about your US tax filing obligations? Have you been procrastinating determining your filing status with the IRS?
Please join us for a webinar organized by Democrats Abroad Germany featuring two tax professionals who are well-versed in the ins and outs of tax filing obligations for Americans living abroad. Arielle and Emily will provide the basics of US tax compliance specific to overseas citizens, as well as provide updates to what may have changed in the laws since last year. Understand your options for using the foreign earned income exclusion, learn about eligibility for tax credits, find out how foreign investment income or pension funds can impact your US taxes.
Jan. 16, 2025 | Navigating Inheritance & Estate Taxes for Americans in Germany
Are you a U.S. citizen living in or planning to move to Germany? Understanding the intricate landscape of inheritance and estate taxes is crucial to safeguarding your legacy and ensuring financial peace of mind. Join our expert-led webinar to gain comprehensive insights into managing your estate across international borders.
Relocating to Germany presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to inheritance and estate planning. This webinar will equip you with the knowledge to:
- Understand Dual Tax Obligations: Learn how U.S. citizenship affects your estate planning in Germany and navigate the complexities of complying with both U.S. and German tax laws.
- Overview of German Inheritance Tax: Review what German Inheritance Tax is and how it may affect you—even if you are not a German citizen. Understand the key aspects of German inheritance laws and their implications for your estate.
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Identify and avoid common mistakes Americans make regarding inheritance and estate taxes in Germany, ensuring a smooth transition for your heirs.
- Practical Steps for Compliance: Review the high-level tax reporting obligations for US citizens living in Germany
Meet Our Experts
- Emily Haines, International US Tax Expert, Xpatax Solutions:
Specializes in cross-border taxation and estate planning for expatriates. - Petra Korn, German-American Lawyer, pKornLaw:
Provides comprehensive guidance on US & German estate and inheritance planning - Arielle Tucker, Cross-Border Financial Planner, Connected Financial Planning:
Expert in navigating cross-border financial planning for U.S. citizens & their families.
Jan. 6, 2025 | Webinar: Making Germany Home – Expert Strategies for US Citizens
Are you a US citizen considering making Germany your new home? Join us for an exclusive Power Hour webinar with a panel of esteemed experts who will guide you through every aspect of relocating and thriving in Germany.
Meet Our Experts:
- Emily Haines, International Tax Expert at Xpatax Solutions
- Tia Robinson, Global Mobility Specialist at Expath
- Arielle Tucker, Cross-Border Financial Planner at Connected Financial Planning
What You'll Learn:
- Immigration Insights: Navigate German immigration laws, secure your residency, and understand the visa application process.
- Tax Considerations: Learn how to manage international taxes, optimize your financial situation, and stay compliant with both US and German tax regulations.
- Financial Planning: Discover strategies for cross-border financial planning, including banking, investments, and asset management, to ensure a smooth financial transition.
- Living in Germany: Gain practical tips on finding housing, understanding the healthcare system, integrating into the local culture, and building a fulfilling life abroad.
Why Watch?
- Comprehensive Guidance: Benefit from the combined expertise of global mobility, international tax, and cross-border financial planning professionals.
- Personal Insights: Hear firsthand experiences and advice on the challenges and rewards of living in Germany.
June 6, 2024 | U.S. Taxes for Americans Living Abroad
About the event: Arielle is back with Emily Haines, CPA, this time with a hybrid event live in Berlin! Join us in person or online, to ask your questions and get the information you need about filing your U.S. taxes as a U.S. citizen living abroad.
Arielle and Emily will provide the basics of U.S. tax compliance specific to overseas citizens, as well as provide updates on what may have changed in the laws since last year. Understand your options for using the foreign-earned income exclusion, learn about eligibility for tax credits, and find out how foreign investment income or pension funds can impact your US taxes.
March 14, 2024 | U.S. Taxes for Americans Living Abroad
About the event: Are you unsure about your U.S. tax filing obligations? Have you been procrastinating in determining your filing status with the IRS? Join Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, for a U.S. tax essentials webinar with Emily Haines from XPatax Solutions, hosted by Democrats Abroad Germany. Arielle and Emily will cover the key components of your tax filing responsibilities as a US citizen living abroad, as well as provide updates on what may have changed in the laws since last year.
Feb. 7, 2024 | Organizing and Preparing to File your US/Swiss Tax Returns (Zoom)
Hosted by: American Women's Club of Zurich
Date: Feb. 7, 2024
About the event: Join Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, and Selim Bucher, as we unravel the complexities of dual taxation and equip you with practical tips to get organized. We will delve into the key aspects of tax compliance, offering practical advice on organizing your financial records, understanding cross-border tax implications, and maximizing available deductions. Whether you're a US expatriate living in Switzerland, a Swiss resident with US income, or someone with financial ties to both countries, this presentation is tailored to address your unique tax challenges. The replay of the event is below.
Feb. 6, 2024 | Swiss Pension System for US Taxpayers (Zoom)
Hosted by: American Women's Club of Zurich
Date: Feb. 6, 2024
About the event: Do you have burning questions about how the Swiss pension system works? Are you planning on leaving Switzerland and not sure how to withdraw your pension without being double taxed? Are you receiving mixed advice about maximizing your retirement savings as a US citizen (or US tax resident) living in Switzerland? Join Arielle & Selim Bucher for this educational workshop. We'll run you through the differences between the Swiss Pillar system and give you the tools to navigate the differences between the US and Swiss retirement systems.
About Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA
Arielle Tucker is a Certified Financial Planner™ and IRS Enrolled Agent. She's spent the last decade living between the US, Germany, and Switzerland and is passionate about helping other U.S. expats and Americans living abroad achieve their dreams with the right financial and tax planning. You can learn more about Arielle and Connected Financial Planning by clicking here.