Goldstein on Gelt

Got U.S. brokerage or IRA accounts and heirs in Israel? Then you’re juggling more than just numbers—you’re navigating cross-border taxes, family dynamics, and future expectations. This episode unpacks how to turn your inheritance plan from a source of stress into a lasting legacy filled with clarity, connection, and purpose. Learn why silence is the real enemy of estate planning, how to start meaningful money conversations with your kids (without the awkwardness), and what simple moves can save your heirs years of confusion. It’s not just about who gets what—it’s about passing on your values with your wealth. Key takeaways: Having open conversations now can prevent heartache later Timing your gifts can sometimes make a bigger impact than waiting A clear plan and a few shared stories can keep your legacy—and your family—intact Want to make sure your U.S. accounts don’t create chaos for your heirs in Israel? Check out International Inheritance Headaches—and How to Avoid Them. It’s packed with tips and strategies to help you pass on your wealth smoothly and meaningfully.

Think your U.S. brokerage account is safe? Not so fast. If you’re living in Israel and still holding accounts in the States, you might be one surprise letter away from a frozen account, a forced closure, or a tax mess you never saw coming. From estate planning nightmares to missed required minimum distributions (RMDs), the cross-border financial world is full of traps for the unprepared. But here’s the good news: with the right plan and a little foresight, you can keep your accounts running smoothly—and legally—without losing sleep. This episode pulls back the curtain on the real risks facing Americans in Israel with U.S. accounts and lays out what smart investors are doing to stay one step ahead. Because when it comes to your money, flying blind just isn’t an option. Key takeaways: Account closures can happen suddenly if your U.S. broker no longer serves clients abroad Cross-border couples face added challenges when estate plans don’t match international rules Delayed RMDs due to account restrictions can cost you thousands in penalties Not sure if your accounts are still working for you? Get clarity with a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation. Visit www.profile-financial.com/call to schedule yours today. Let’s see if and how we can help.

A health crisis can turn your world upside down—and if your finances aren’t in order, the stress multiplies fast. For Americans living in Israel with U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts, one unexpected illness can mean frozen accounts, legal roadblocks, and major money headaches. But here’s the good news: with a few simple steps, you can stay in control, protect your assets, and make sure your family isn’t left scrambling. From power of attorney documents to emergency funds, this episode dives into the must-haves that every cross-border family should check off before a crisis hits. If you’re making Aliya, already living in Israel, or supporting family across borders, this could be one of the most important financial check-ins you do all year. Key Takeaways: Emergency funds aren’t just good advice—they’re your financial lifeline Granting account access ahead of time prevents major issues later Your estate documents aren’t set-it-and-forget-it. Review them regularly Want a deeper look at how to protect your finances during a medical emergency?
Read Health Crisis: A Brief Financial Guide for Olim and get the steps you can take today to safeguard your money, your access, and your peace of mind.

Retirement income planning doesn’t have to feel like walking a financial tightrope. If you’re living in Israel with your investments still in the U.S., you already know the game is more complicated—exchange rates, taxes, IRAs, RMDs… it’s enough to make your head spin. But here’s the real problem: too many retirees end up guessing instead of planning. They hesitate, hold back, and miss out on the life they actually saved for. This episode is all about cutting through the noise. No more flying blind. No more financial second-guessing. Just clear strategies to help you simplify, automate, and finally feel good about spending your money. Because retirement shouldn’t be one long stress-fest—it should be the part where you get to enjoy the ride. Key Takeaways: Discover why guesswork is the biggest threat to your retirement lifestyle Learn how to turn your savings into a reliable, stress-free income stream Break free from the fear of overspending and start enjoying what you’ve built Want to feel confident about your retirement finances? Schedule a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation and get personal clarity on your U.S. accounts, Israeli life, and how it all fits together. The information provided here is intended for educational purposes only and is not to be considered legal, tax, or investment advice. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, FSI. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not those of Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. or its affiliates.

Money clashes, mismatched spending styles, and prenup pressure—when couples don’t talk about finances, things can get messy fast. This episode tackles one of the most overlooked (and awkward!) relationship issues: how to talk about money without ruining the romance. Whether you're dating, getting married for the second time, or trying to merge financial lives, skipping these conversations can cost more than just cash. Special guest Aleeza Ben Shalom—Netflix star of Jewish Matchmaking, relationship coach, and host of the Matchmaker, Matchmaker podcast—joins us to unpack what financial intimacy really means. She shares real-world insights from hundreds of couples, including why generosity reveals more about people than their cash flow, how to start the money conversation without triggering alarm bells, and why love alone isn’t a financial plan. Key takeaways: Talking about money early helps couples avoid future conflict and build true financial intimacy Generosity, risk tolerance, and money habits say more about a person than a dating profile ever could Second marriages and blended families need proactive planning to protect assets and preserve trust Want help starting the conversation? Sign up at www.financialdate.com to get your deck of Financial Date conversation cards—perfect for sparking meaningful money talks with your partner. For more information on Aleeza Ben Shalom visit her website at marriagemindedmentor.com.

American investment accounts, you could be paying too much (or filing too late) without even realizing it. This episode breaks down how to avoid double taxation, decode the infamous “first bite” rule, and finally get your Israeli and American accountants on the same page without losing your mind. Douglas Goldstein, CFP® teams up with Aryeh Holtz, CPA from Simple Tax, who explains what to file, when to file, and how to avoid the common traps that trip up even the most organized investors. Key takeaways: Know which country gets to tax you first. It’s not as simple as it sounds. Don’t start with the wrong accountant or you’ll end up doing it twice. Tech tools can help, but real human review keeps your return airtight. Get your tax docs in early so you’re not filing in a frenzy. Dive deeper: Learn more about Simple Tax or get in touch at www.simpletax.co.il or message them directly via WhatsApp through the site.

Understanding your financial goals isn't just about numbers. It's about digging into what really matters to you. This episode features special guest Mishy Harman, host of the popular Israel Story podcast, who shares how powerful storytelling can spark better conversations about money. Whether you're chatting with your spouse, your advisor, or just thinking things through on your own, learning to pause, listen, and reflect can completely change how you handle your finances. Get ready for a fun and eye-opening take on how silence, patience, and a good question or two might be the most valuable financial tools you've been missing. Key Takeaways: Listening more and talking less can help you make smarter money choices Your story shapes your financial goals, so don't leave it out Couples who understand each other’s money mindset make better decisions together Ready to talk about your story and your money? Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation at profile-financial.com/call.  

Buying Real Estate in Israel Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Money) Buying a home in Israel isn’t just about bricks and mortar. For many people, it’s tied to big dreams like starting fresh in a new country or creating a stronger connection to the land of Israel. But navigating the Israeli real estate market? That part can be overwhelming. Doug Goldstein teams up with Debbie Goldfischer, Founder and CEO of Buyitinisrael.com and host of the popular podcast On The House, to break it all down. She knows the ins and outs of buying property here and shared insights that every English-speaking buyer should hear before diving in. Whether someone is planning Aliya, investing from abroad, or searching for a permanent place to land, these are the things that matter most. A picture-perfect apartment... or a walk-through reality? Buying off-plan is tempting. The designs look sleek, the buildings are modern, and the perks can sound amazing. But what someone sees in a brochure doesn’t always match reality. With second-hand homes, it's a different story. A buyer can walk in, check the lighting, meet a neighbor, and feel the space in real time. That kind of clarity is hard to beat. Off-plan deals come with variables that might surprise first-time buyers. Construction delays happen. Prices can shift due to rising material costs, which in Israel are tracked by the construction index. It's not just theory. It can directly affect the price tag. The good news? Some developers cap this cost or remove it altogether. It's worth asking. Playing the long game If someone isn't planning to move right away, buying off-plan might make a lot of sense. Developers usually offer payment plans in stages, making it easier on the wallet. Plus, early buyers often get to choose layouts, finishes, and upgrades, which can be both fun and practical. New homes also meet today’s building standards. Think energy efficiency, stronger safety features, and built-in shelters. Over time, those benefits add up. Still, second-hand homes have one big edge, they’re in neighborhoods that are already up and running. Schools, grocery stores, synagogues, and public transportation are all in place. That convenience matters, especially for families. To rent or to buy? Many people wonder if they should just rent. Debbie had strong thoughts here. Renting in Israel can work, but the market is still catching up. Tenant protections are weaker than in other countries, and year-to-year leases don’t offer much stability. Renting short-term can be smart for someone still figuring out where to live. But Debbie's advice was clear. Don’t rent in a neighborhood that you wouldn’t be able to buy in. Otherwise, you might get attached to a place you can’t afford later on. Some buyers choose to own a property in a different neighborhood as a way to build equity, even if the family is not living there yet. That way, they’re at least on the property ladder. Note: This is for educational purposes only and does not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. Please speak with a qualified professional about your specific situation. If you’re thinking of using your U.S. investment account to fund an Israeli property purchase, make sure you speak with a licensed financial professional. Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation now at www.profile-financial.com/callto see how we can help provide tailored advice to your U.S. accounts and Israeli goals.

Wills that don’t work. Trusts that get tangled. Heirs scrambling to figure out who gets what—and when. If you’ve got U.S. investments but live in Israel, your estate plan might be headed for a legal mess without even realizing it. This episode unpacks the real-world problems that come up when your legal documents aren’t built for cross-border life—and how you can avoid costly, confusing mistakes by getting your financial and legal teams to actually talk to each other. You’ll learn how to set up your plan so your heirs don’t need a PhD in international law to carry out your wishes—and why a little proactive planning now can save everyone a lot of headaches later. Key takeaways and action points: Don’t assume your U.S. will works in Israel (or vice versa)—get it reviewed Loop your financial advisor in before you finalize estate documents Leave your heirs a roadmap, not a scavenger hunt Work with pros who understand both sides of the ocean 👉 Want help reviewing your estate and investment setup? Book a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation at www.profile-financial.com/call Disclaimer: This article is meant for educational purposes only. It’s not financial, legal, or tax advice. For personalized help, speak with a qualified professional.

Feeling financially stuck between two countries? If your accounts are split between the U.S. and Israel, even simple money decisions, like when to convert currency or which account to use, can start to feel risky. It’s not about being bad with money. It’s about not having a system that fits your life. This episode explores the hidden stress that comes from managing cross-border finances and offers practical ways to reduce the pressure. Learn how to create clarity around your income and expenses, set a regular financial rhythm to avoid decision fatigue, and build resilience for when things go wrong. With the right structure, your finances can stop feeling like a juggling act and start giving you peace of mind. Key Takeaways: Clarity: Know what your money is doing and why Rhythm: Create a regular habit to review and adjust your finances Resilience: Build a system that can handle financial surprises Want to stop second-guessing every financial decision? Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation. A short, no-pressure call to help you see where things stand and what you can do next. The information provided here is intended for educational purposes only and is not to be considered legal, tax, or investment advice. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, FSI. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not those of Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. or its affiliates.

Are You Betting Your Future on “If”? If you’re living in Israel and managing U.S. brokerage or IRA accounts, here’s a tough question: are you confident in your investment plan or just crossing your fingers and hoping the market doesn’t drop? Managing money across two countries isn’t just about tax forms and exchange rates (though yes, there’s plenty of that). It’s about making sure your plan can actually handle the curveballs life and the market throw your way. Too often, investors assume they’re doing just fine… until they’re not. Most of us check our account balances more than we check our strategy. But here’s the problem: a big balance doesn’t always mean you’re winning. It might just mean you got lucky. And luck isn’t a financial plan. Don’t Rely on “If” to Retire “If the market gives me 10% this year…”  “If the dollar stays strong…”  “If nothing goes wrong…” Sound familiar? Building your future on a bunch of “ifs” is like planning a beach wedding without checking the weather. You need more than sunshine and good vibes... you need backup. The fix? Start with what you control. One of the biggest levers you have is your savings rate. Even bumping it up by 2–3% can shift your entire financial trajectory. No trends, no gimmicks, just solid planning that works over time. When One Stock Takes Over the Show That one stock that’s been doing great? It might feel like your golden goose… until it’s not. Letting a single investment grow too large can quietly hijack your whole portfolio. You wouldn’t bet your entire retirement on a startup, right? But that’s what happens when one holding becomes 40 or 50% of your account. Diversification isn’t boring; it’s smart. Think of your portfolio like a good Israeli salad: a little of this, a little of that, and nothing overwhelms the plate. That’s how you stay balanced. Feel Brave About Risk? Let’s Double-Check Risk tolerance is how you feel when the market drops. Risk capacity is whether your plan can survive it. You might not panic when things fall… but will your retirement stay on track? Will you still be able to help your kids? Support the causes you care about? It’s not about being scared. It’s about being prepared. And when you’re living in Israel with U.S. accounts, there’s even more to think about... currency swings, double taxation, weird form deadlines. Getting your structure right can make all the difference. Note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult with a qualified professional to review your personal situation. Ready to make sure your portfolio is actually working for you—and not the other way around? Book your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluationand get a clear, practical plan that fits your life in Israel and your money in the U.S. No pressure; just smart conversation.

Tax rules shouldn't hold you back from building a life abroad, but for many Americans living overseas, that's exactly what happens. Marylouise Serrato of American Citizens Abroad (ACA) unpacks the real struggles expats face, from filing U.S. tax returns while living abroad to dealing with confusing rules around foreign investments. Sound overwhelming? Well change might finally be on the way. From the fight to end worldwide taxation to surprising pitfalls like PFICs and foreign pension plans, this episode sheds light on what’s broken and what’s being done to fix it. If you’re juggling Israeli life with American tax rules, this one’s a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Citizenship-based taxation is outdated and creates financial headaches for Americans abroad. Investing outside the U.S. can trigger unexpected tax problems if you're not careful. A push for residence-based taxation could bring long-overdue relief for expats. Want clarity on your personal situation? Book your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation today! Disclaimer: This article is meant for educational purposes only. It’s not financial, legal, or tax advice. For personalized help, speak with a qualified professional.

Need cash fast in retirement? Don't get stuck selling stocks at the worst time or scrambling with currency conversions. If your money’s locked away in long-term accounts, it might look good on paper—but won’t help much when life throws you a curveball. This episode dives into the surprisingly overlooked topic of liquidity—what it is, why it matters, and how to make sure your money is actually there when you need it. Whether you're living in Israel, spending in shekels, or managing U.S. accounts from afar, you'll learn how to build a flexible, stress-free financial setup that gives you options—not headaches. Say goodbye to panic-selling and hello to peace of mind. Key takeaways and action points: Liquidity = freedom. Without it, you're stuck. Avoid costly mistakes by keeping cash ready for surprises. Split your emergency funds between shekels and dollars. Top off your cash reserves when the markets are strong. Want to go deeper? Check out Doug’s article on how to avoid liquidity traps in retirement, especially if you're managing U.S. and Israeli accounts: Asset-Rich, Cash-Poor Disclaimer: This article is meant for educational purposes only. It’s not financial, legal, or tax advice. For personalized help, speak with a qualified professional.  

There’s over $15 trillion sitting in IRA accounts in the U.S.—are you making the most of yours? If you’re living in Israel and still have retirement savings in the States, understanding how IRAs work could mean the difference between a secure future and missed opportunities. This episode makes sense of the rules (without the jargon), shows you how to avoid unnecessary taxes and penalties, and gives you the tools to take full control of your financial future—right from your laptop in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, or wherever you call home. No more guessing what a traditional IRA actually does or when to take money out. If you’ve got U.S. retirement accounts and a life in Israel, this is your quick-start guide to smarter investing. Key takeaways and action points: Discover how tax-deferred growth can supercharge your retirement savings Find out when and how you can access your money without triggering penalties Learn how RMDs work and when the IRS really starts paying attention If you need help managing your U.S. IRA from Israel and want to make the most of it, schedule a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation by clicking here

Why Saving Money Feels Hard (And How to Make It Easy) Ever check your bank balance and think, Wait—where did all my money go?! One minute, payday hits, and the next, your hard-earned cash has vanished—eaten up by bills, surprise expenses, and everyday spending. It’s like your money is playing hide and seek… and winning. But here’s the good news: saving money doesn’t have to feel impossible. You don’t need to overhaul your lifestyle, live on instant noodles, or give up everything fun. A few smart tweaks can turn saving from a dreaded chore into something effortless—maybe even a little exciting. Let’s break it down. Why an Emergency Fund is a Game-Changer Life has a knack for throwing expensive surprises your way—your car breaks down, a medical bill pops up, or your fridge decides to call it quits. Without a financial cushion, these moments can turn into full-blown crises, leaving you scrambling for a solution. That’s where an emergency fund comes in. Think of it as a financial safety net. Instead of reaching for a credit card, borrowing money, or selling investments at the worst possible time, you can handle unexpected expenses stress-free. No panic, no debt—just peace of mind. How Much Should You Save? Think of your emergency fund like a financial airbag—you hope you never need it, but you’ll be glad it’s there. Here’s a good rule of thumb: Steady paycheck? Aim for at least three months’ worth of expenses. Self-employed or income varies? Six months is a safer bet. Retired? Keeping up to a year’s worth of expenses in cash can help you avoid selling investments during a market downturn. And don’t stress about saving it all at once. Start small, set aside what you can each month, and watch it grow. Where to Keep Your Emergency Fund Not under your mattress, that’s for sure. And not in a checking account earning zero percent interest, either. The goal is to keep it safe, accessible, and ideally, earning a little something. If your expenses are in dollars, a U.S. money market fund could be a great option. Some are even insured, similar to FDIC-backed bank accounts. Unlike a regular checking account, which earns almost nothing, money market funds often provide a variable return, so be sure to check with a financial professional to understand the risks and details. If you need shekels, Israeli banks may not offer great interest on regular accounts, but some allow you to lock your money for short periods (daily, weekly, or monthly) to earn a little extra. Even a small return is better than letting your money sit idle. Beyond the Emergency Fund: Making Your Money Work for You An emergency fund is your financial safety net, but long-term security requires more than just stashing away cash. At some point, you’ll want to stop working—or at least have the option to stop. Many people assume that between Social Security (U.S.), Bituach Leumi (Israel), and their pension, they’ll be fine. But the reality? Those sources often fall short. To maintain your lifestyle in retirement, you need investments that grow over time. Building an Investment Portfolio Investing can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. A broad, diversified portfolio—such as an index fund tracking the S&P 500—can be a straightforward way to grow wealth over time. Others prefer a mix of stocks, bonds, or managed portfolios tailored to their goals and risk tolerance. The key is consistency. Even small contributions, made regularly, can grow significantly over time. And while markets fluctuate, history suggests that long-term investors tend to fare better than those who sit on the sidelines. Important note: Investing involves risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Always consult a licensed financial advisor to determine what strategy makes sense for your situation. Plugging the Financial Leaks: Where is Your Money Going? You might think you have your spending under control, but when you actually track where your money is going, the results can be surprising. Many people waste thousands each year without realizing it—on subscriptions they don’t use, high-fee services, and impulse spending. A quick self-check: Are you paying for things you don’t actually use (streaming services, gym memberships, premium banking fees)? Do you regularly eat out or order takeout but can’t seem to save for bigger goals? Are you overspending on insurance or other recurring expenses without shopping around for better rates? You don’t have to cut everything fun out of your life—you just need to be intentional about where your money goes. A simple spending review can help you redirect money from waste to wealth-building. The Secret to Saving More Without Thinking About It One of the easiest ways to build wealth? Automate your savings. Set up an automatic transfer so that every month, a portion of your paycheck goes straight into savings before you have a chance to spend it. You can do this with your emergency fund, investment accounts, or even a retirement account. The less you have to think about saving, the more likely you are to actually do it. Over time, those small amounts add up in a big way. Small Changes, Big Impact Financial security isn’t about being rich—it’s about being prepared. An emergency fund gives you the freedom to handle life’s unexpected expenses without stress, turning financial shocks into minor inconveniences. Investing wisely allows your money to grow over time, so you’re not just stashing cash but actually building long-term wealth. At the same time, cutting out unnecessary expenses doesn’t mean giving up what you love—it means making sure your money is working toward what truly matters. The easiest way to stay on track? Automate your savings. When saving happens in the background, it becomes effortless—and over time, those small, consistent contributions can add up to real financial security. If you want to make sure your U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts are positioned to support your financial future, schedule a free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation today and get a clear, customized plan for managing your investments while living in Israel. www.profile-financial.com/call