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SWAN Cross-Border Blog
Welcome to the SWAN Cross-Border Blog. We hop you find the resources you need to make your cross-border move so much easier.
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How to Move to Canada from the US: A Simple Guide for 2025
Moving to Canada from the US can be an exciting opportunity. But it comes with its complexity. It requires careful planning, particularly if you have substantial assets. Whether you're moving for work, retirement, or family reasons, it’s important to understand the main steps and prepare in advance. Below is a simple guide to help you navigate the key steps involved in making this transition smoother.

Tiffany Woodfield
May 18 min read


What Is FBAR?
An FBAR filing refers to the process of submitting a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

John Woodfield
Apr 245 min read


Can You Turn an IRA into an RRSP?
You’re planning a move to Canada or you’ve already moved, and you’re wondering if you can move a 401(k) or IRA to an RRSP and what the tax implications might be.

Tiffany Woodfield
Apr 246 min read


Should You Move Your 401k to Canada?
As a US citizen, it’s common to get frustrated when you try to find information on what to do with your 401k.

Tiffany Woodfield
Apr 95 min read


Living in Canada vs. USA: A Quick Guide to the Pros and Cons
In this quick guide to living in Canada vs. the USA, I’ll cover the basics of lifestyle, housing, education, and finances.

Tiffany Woodfield
Mar 3115 min read


How to Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Employee Stock Options as a Green Card Holder Moving to Canada
Reducing capital gains tax on stock options requires careful planning, particularly for Green Card holders or U.S. citizens moving to Canada.

John Woodfield
Mar 277 min read


Are Roth IRA Distributions Taxable?
Qualified distributions from a Roth IRA are not taxable. But what makes a distribution qualified? Whether or not Roth IRA distributions are qualified depends on several factors, including how long the account has been open, the type of contribution made, and the reason for the withdrawal.

Tiffany Woodfield
Mar 1010 min read


What Is Ultra High-Net-Worth Wealth Management?
When it comes to ultra-high-net-worth wealth management in Canada, it’s essential that you work with a firm with specialists who understand your situation and have helped similar individuals or families.

Tiffany Woodfield
Mar 29 min read


The Ultimate FBAR Filing Guide
The FBAR is a way for the US to find funds in offshore accounts.

John Woodfield
Oct 24, 20247 min read


What Is the Difference Between an RSP and an RRSP?
RRSPs are the most popular type of RSP. They are specifically designed to help Canadians save for retirement.

Tiffany Woodfield
Oct 24, 20246 min read


Foreign Tax Credits in Canada and the US
Canadians who pay foreign taxes can generally claim a credit for taxes paid on employment, business, and investment income.

John Woodfield
Aug 22, 20247 min read


The Cost of Renouncing Your U.S. Citizenship in 2025
If you're an American living in Canada, it would be wise to speak with a dual-licensed advisor before renouncing. There are ways that your cross-border financial situation can be simplified without the need to renounce your U.S. citizenship.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 30, 202414 min read


U.S. Taxes in Canada: A Simple Guide for Expats and Dual Citizens
As an American living in Canada, it's important that you seek the guidance of a cross-border accountant and a cross-border advisor. This post will provide you with some general information on U.S. taxes in Canada, but it’s no substitute for working with a professional.

Tiffany Woodfield
Jul 22, 202411 min read


What to Do With U.S. Mutual Funds in Canada
If you are an U.S. Person living in Canada and you own mutual funds that you bought in the U.S., you’re going to encounter some complexities that are worth understanding.

John Woodfield
May 18, 20244 min read


Bonds vs GICs: Are bonds a better investment than GICs?
Bonds vs. GICs is one of my favourite topics since the choice between bonds and GICs tends to be emotional.

John Woodfield
Feb 8, 20249 min read


Dual Citizenship: USA Canada Guide
Regarding dual citizenship in Canada and the U.S., it's important to note that there isn't a distinct application process for acquiring it.

Tiffany Woodfield
Feb 6, 202412 min read


Is Your 401(k) Taxable in Canada?
When you live in Canada and take money out of your 401(k), the US will withhold money to pay your US taxes.

Tiffany Woodfield
Nov 27, 20238 min read


Canadians Living in the US: Visas, Taxes, and Financial Planning
Moving to another country is a massive change.

John Woodfield
Nov 27, 202311 min read


Basic Guide to the US-Canada Income Tax Convention
The income tax treaty between the US and Canada is designed to prevent double taxation.

Tiffany Woodfield
Nov 24, 202310 min read


Financial Planning for Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals in the U.S. and Canada
Financial planning for ultra-high-net-worth individuals involves strategies designed to maximize investment returns while minimizing taxes and protecting assets.

John Woodfield
Nov 1, 20236 min read


Simple Estate Planning Checklist for Canadians
This article and checklist for Canadians will help you get organized and ensure you’ve covered everything.

John Woodfield
Sep 14, 202311 min read


A Guide to Financial Planning for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Financial planning is crucial for business owners and entrepreneurs as professional planning ensures the success and growth of a business, providing a solid foundation for achieving financial goals.

John Woodfield
Aug 21, 202312 min read


How to Choose a Certified Financial Planner in Canada
Certified Financial Planners work with clients to build financial plans so that the potential for a client to meet their financial goals is maximized.

John Woodfield
Jun 5, 20235 min read


Trusts in Canada
We've created an essential guide to Canadian trusts so you can begin learning how to protect your wealth. Once you’ve accumulated substantial assets, it’s important to protect what you’ve built and ensure your legacy is protected.

Tiffany Woodfield
Apr 26, 202317 min read
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