Snowbird Planning - Homepage

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Canadians cross the U.S. border seeking warmer climates during the cold Canadian winter. These individuals are collectively referred to as “Snowbirds”. We created this site to help you understand the various tax, financial and estate planning considerations that you can face when spending time in the United States or, by owning real estate there.

Crossing the border, spending time in the U.S. and engaging in various financial transactions have legal and tax implications in both Canada and the U.S. The tax laws are distinctly different between the two countries. Becoming more aware of the financial, immigration, health care, tax and estate planning issues that you might face, will allow you to make the most of your “snowbird” lifestyle, particularly if you own real estate in the U.S.

As a Canadian Snowbird in America, you will likely participate in financial transactions involving U.S. dollars. You may, for example, purchase a house or condominium in Arizona, Florida, California, Texas or Hawaii. You might reside in it for a few months of the year, rent it out at other times and hopefully sell it at a profit in the future – and in U.S. dollars! Some of you might get sick or suffer an unfortunate accident while in the U.S. Unfortunately, some might pass away owning U.S. assets and have to pay the dreaded U.S. estate tax that can compromise your retirement savings and in turn, the future lifestyle of a surviving spouse. In addition, the confusion among family members that can come in such circumstances can be mind-boggling.

Our unique expertise and comprehensive wealth management services coordinate all aspects of your financial situation in either country, including your very specific Snowbird planning requirements. Take all the time you need to learn about us. Consider picking up our best selling book, The Canadian Snowbird in America, and when you’re ready, introduce yourself by filling out our Introductory Snowbird FactFinder. Let’s have a conversation and see if there is a fit.