Self-Employed SEP-IRA — How to Count Korean Consulting Income Paid in Won
Self-employed and billing a Korean client in won? Here’s how that income folds into your SEP-IRA limit, and the contribution room most people miss.
Investing
529 Education Savings — Which Korean Universities Qualify for US Tax-Advantaged Withdrawals
A 529 plan can sometimes cover tuition at a Korean university, but only if that specific school is on the federal eligible list.
401(k) Employer Match — The Free Money Korean Newcomers Skip Because They Don’t Understand Vesting
Confused about your 401(k) employer match and vesting rules? Here’s why skipping it costs new immigrants free money every year.
Korean National Pension While Living in the US — Keep Paying, Take Exemption, or Get a Refund
Still have a Korean National Pension account after moving to the US? Here’s how voluntary continued enrollment, the exemption, and the lump-sum refund actually compare.
401(k) Loan on an H-1B — When It’s Justified and When the Clock Runs Out
A 401k loan can survive a layoff or trigger a five-figure tax bill. Here are the two deadlines H-1B workers confuse, with real numbers.
HSA Retirement Strategy: The Family Coverage Gap That Costs Immigrant Couples Thousands
An HSA retirement strategy assumes both spouses have an SSN for family coverage. When one doesn’t yet, the gap can cost over $1,000 a year.
Mega Backdoor Roth via After-Tax 401(k) Contributions — Does Your Employer Plan Even Allow It
Mega backdoor Roth can add tens of thousands in extra Roth savings beyond normal 401(k) limits — but only if your plan allows it.
Selling Samsung Stock in the US — Tax Calculation Including Currency Gains
Selling Korean stock like Samsung as a US taxpayer? PFIC rules, currency gains, and FBAR reporting all apply — here’s how to calculate what you owe.
Backdoor Roth IRA Pro-Rata Rule: The Trap That Gets Worse If You Might Retire in Korea
The backdoor Roth pro-rata rule explained with real numbers — plus why it’s a harder call if you might move back to Korea someday.
Roth IRA on H1B, F1, or OPT: Your Visa Status Doesn’t Disqualify You — Earned Income Does
Yes, you can open a Roth IRA on H1B, F1, or OPT — visa status is irrelevant. The real eligibility rules, 2024 limits, and why to start now.