Smarter Planner Podcast Advising Immigrants: Culture, Compliance, and Cross-Border Complexity - Jane Mepham, CFP® [Founder & International Advisor]
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Oct 8, 2025 
Jane Mepham, a Certified Financial Planner and founder of Elgon Financial Advisors, shares her expertise on the complexities of financial planning for immigrants in the U.S. She discusses the unique needs of various visa holders and the impact of being temporary on financial strategies. Jane highlights the importance of collaboration between financial planners and immigration attorneys. Insights include tips on retirement accounts, investment preferences, and the significance of understanding tax compliance to avoid pitfalls. Her personal journey enriches the conversation.
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Get Advice Before You Arrive
- Find cross-border financial advice before relocating to the U.S. to avoid early mistakes.
- An educational session prior to arrival makes setup and tax compliance much easier.
Collaborate With Cross-Border Specialists
- Collaborate with cross-border planners, immigration attorneys, and tax experts when cases get complex.
- Use networks and partners to save research time and ensure correct guidance.
Banking Words Reveal Cultural Gaps
- Jane uses Kenyan terminology to illustrate banking language differences, like 'current account' vs 'checking account'.
- She explains clients often mistrust unfamiliar systems, requiring patient education.