Category: Personal Finance
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HDFC Smart Buy – Your Key to Indian Shopping While Abroad
Folks, I still remember staring at my Chase credit card statement back in Irvine. My wife needed to buy her mom a refrigerator in Chennai. We ended up paying almost 4% in foreign transaction fees! That was 2016. I didn’t know about HDFC Smart Buy then. When we moved back to India in 2017, I…
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Top Wise Alternatives for NRIs in 2025
Hey there! Mani here. Remember when I moved back to India after years in the US? One of the biggest headaches was figuring out how to move money internationally without getting slapped with ridiculous fees. If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for alternatives to Wise (formerly TransferWise). Maybe their fees increased, or perhaps you’re…
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How to Deal with Taxation in India and Your Former Country 🌎💰
I still remember that moment. Sitting with my CA in Kochi. Staring at my US tax forms. My son walked in and asked, “Dad, why do you look so confused?” “Beta, I’m trying to figure out how to pay taxes in two countries.” He laughed. “That sounds like double trouble!” Smart kid. And he was…
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NRI to Resident? Here’s When You Should Convert Your NRE Account
So, you’ve packed your bags, waved goodbye to Uncle Sam (or Dubai Mall), and made that grand return to India. Welcome back! 😄 The filter coffee is better, the weather is almost tolerable, and your mom’s food tastes like heaven. But just when you’re settling in, your bank account – yup, that NRE one –…
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Filing Income Tax Returns in India as an NRI: Step-by-Step Guide
When I filed my first tax return as an NRI, I was completely overwhelmed by the process. After helping dozens of NRIs navigate this annual ritual and learning from my own mistakes, I’ve created this practical guide to make the process clearer. 💡 Quick Tip: Start gathering your financial documents at least a month before…
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Social Security Tax for NRIs: What Happens After Moving to India
Hey there! Mani here. When I moved back to India, figuring out my Social Security obligations was one of my biggest tax headaches. Do NRIs need to pay Social Security Tax in the USA after moving to India, is one of the most repeated questions in our WhatsApp groups. After navigating this complex territory and…
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Understanding the India-USA Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)
Hey there! Mani here. The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India and the US often seems like a maze of legal jargon. After helping numerous NRIs navigate this treaty and dealing with it personally, I’ve learned how to break it down into practical, understandable terms. 💡 Quick Tip: Always refer to the latest version of…
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Avoiding Double Taxation: A Comprehensive Guide for NRIs
When I first started dealing with taxes in both India and the US, I was terrified of paying taxes twice on the same income. After navigating this complex landscape and helping other NRIs optimize their tax situations, I’ve learned the ins and outs of using the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) effectively. 💡 Quick Tip:…
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Indian Income Tax 101 for NRIs Taking Up Jobs in India
Hey there! Mani here. Remember my first tax filing after moving back to India? I was so confused that I almost booked a return ticket to the US! But after figuring it out (and making a few mistakes along the way), I want to share everything you need to know about handling your taxes when…
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Should You Keep Your US Bank Accounts After Moving to India?
Hey there! Mani here. When I was packing up my life in the US to move back to India, one question kept bugging me: “Should I close my US bank accounts?” After years of helping other NRIs with this decision, I’ve got some practical insights to share! 💡 Quick Tip: Before making any decisions, list…