•Expats in the US
Why you may need a state ID as an expat in the US and how to get it?
A state ID can be your lifeline as a US expat—I recommend getting one if your driver's license is more than 3-4 months away, and here's my step-by-step guide.
Expats in the US
80 posts in this category
•Expats in the US
My FAQs with ChatGPT about Health Saving Account (HSA) for expat
I tested ChatGPT's knowledge on HSAs for expats and discovered its limitations—it can't browse the internet and doesn't always know factual accuracy.
•Driving in the US
Expat's guide to securing your US driving license
Navigating 35+ language options and location-specific pass rates helped me crack the DMV system—here's how to skip the common pitfalls expats face.
•Driving in the US
What to look for when buying your first car in the US as an expat
I learned the hard way that buying a car in the US has hidden quirks expats miss—from Apple CarPlay volume locks to using rentals as extended test drives.
•Driving in the US
Why is the gas price so different between nearby stations in the US?
Ever noticed 15-20% gas price gaps between nearby stations? Here's why competition doesn't always mean lower prices—and how to find the best deals.
•Credit score for expats
Why expats in the US should freeze their credit report
As an expat with limited US credit history, you're an easy target for identity thieves. Learn how to freeze your credit in minutes—for free.
•Expats in the US
The Basics of FSA for Expats in the US
FSAs let expats save hundreds on taxes yearly by paying medical costs pretax, but the "use-it-or-lose-it" rule means strategic planning is essential.
•Credit card tips
The best credit card to pay rent is the Bilt Mastercard (Nov 2022)
The Bilt Mastercard is the only card letting you earn points on rent with zero transaction fees—saving you $600+ yearly while earning travel rewards.
•Expats in the US
Health saving accounts (HSA) - For expats in the US: what you need to know
HSAs offer expats triple tax advantages—deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses—making them essential for savvy healthcare planning.
•Expats in the US
Eight things you need to know before visiting Pinnacles National Park (Oct 2022)
While Pinnacles can't match Yosemite's grandeur, I'll show you why Bear Gulch Reservoir is worth the trip—and which trail to skip if you have young kids.
•Expats in the US
First-Timer's Guide to Joshua Tree National Park
From my October visit, I learned the secret to enjoying Joshua Tree is timing your trip between October-May and starting early—here's how to maximize 4-5 hours in this stunning desert park.
•Expats in the US
Applying for a Loan in the US as an Expat: Everything You Need to Know
Even with a 740+ credit score, I got rejected for loans due to short US credit history—until I learned to strategically consolidate my finances to give lenders the data they needed.