Many families we serve have a home in Houston and land, savings or relatives in Vietnam or another country. Each country has its own inheritance rules, and a U.S. will alone may not settle property overseas. International estate planning makes sure your plans here and abroad work together instead of against each other.

Common Situations

• Property or bank accounts outside the United States
• Children or other heirs living abroad
• A spouse who is not a U.S. citizen
• Assets still held in the country you came from

Key Challenges

Countries may disagree about which law applies, who inherits and which documents are valid. Foreign institutions often require translated, notarized or legalized documents. Tax rules can apply in both countries, and the U.S. has its own reporting requirements for foreign accounts and assets.

A Spouse Who Is Not a U.S. Citizen

The unlimited marital deduction that normally lets spouses inherit from each other free of federal estate tax generally does not apply when the surviving spouse is not a U.S. citizen. Special planning, such as a qualified domestic trust, may be needed.

How We Help

We build the U.S. side of your plan (wills, trusts and powers of attorney) with your foreign assets in mind, review how those assets are titled, and coordinate with qualified attorneys in the other country so both sides fit together.

Whether you’re planning ahead or facing a decision right now, we can help with international estate planning. Schedule a confidential consultation or call/text (281) 407-5622.