After a Job Loss: Marketplace Insurance vs COBRA — Real Numbers Compared
COBRA vs Marketplace after a layoff — real premium comparisons, subsidy math, and the exact situations where COBRA actually wins.
High Yield Savings Accounts — Answering the Tax and FDIC Questions Korean Immigrants Ask
A high yield savings account can beat 4%, but Korean immigrants have real questions about taxes, FDIC safety, and nonresident eligibility. Answers here.
Currency Exchange During a Korea Trip — Should You Withdraw Dollars or Won From ATMs Abroad
Withdrawing cash in Korea? See why choosing won over dollars for your ATM withdrawal in Korea, and picking the right card, saves real money every time.
Depositing Over $10,000 Cash at a Bank — What Actually Happens with a CTR Filing
A Currency Transaction Report is a routine bank form, not an investigation — the real crime is splitting deposits to dodge it, even with legitimate cash.
Opening a Bank Account as an F-1 Student Before Arriving in the US — Which Banks Allow Remote Pre-Enrollment
Some banks let F-1 students open a US bank account before arriving, no SSN required. Here’s which options actually allow it and how the process works.
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.
Remote Work for a Korean Company While Living in California — Do You Pay CA Tax?
California remote work for a Korean company? The CA FTB may still tax your Korean paycheck. Learn the source-income rules, filing steps, and penalties.
PayPal or Venmo Side Income on a Visa — The Question That Comes Before the 1099-K Threshold
On a visa and getting paid through PayPal or Venmo? The 1099-K threshold isn’t your first question — whether your status lets you earn that money at all is.
Korean Parents Wired You Money for a Down Payment — Here’s What the IRS Actually Wants From You
Got a gift from Korean parents for a US home down payment? No income tax owed, but Form 3520 may be required. Here’s the real rule explained.