Moving away from the US is a hundred small financial decisions with a few expensive ones hidden among them. This is the checklist we wish someone had handed us: everything to do, in the order to do it, from a year out to a year after. Tick items off as you go — your progress saves in your browser.
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12–6 months beforePlan while you still have every option
6–3 months beforeRetirement accounts and taxes
3–1 months beforeBanking, credit, insurance
Final 30 daysPaperwork and proof
After you landThe first year abroad
Three principles behind the list
Never cash out in a panic. Your US accounts stay yours after you leave. The costly mistakes are almost all rushed withdrawals, not patient ones.
The calendar is a tax tool. Departure timing, RNOR windows, low-income years — when you do something often matters more than what.
Buy one hour of expertise. Every item marked with a CPA is there because the rules depend on your facts and shift yearly. It’s the best-returning hour you’ll spend.
Education, not advice. WealthyFied publishes general financial education for immigrants in the US. Nothing here is personalized investment, tax, or legal advice — your situation is unique, so run big decisions past a qualified cross-border professional. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.