Expat Money Woes: Philippines Financial Reality

🔥 Navigating Finances in the Philippines: Tips & Tricks! 💰
Join us for an insightful discussion on managing finances in the Philippines! In this video, we cover everything from setting up bank accounts to transferring money smoothly. Whether you're retiring here or just curious about financial logistics, we've got you covered!
🌴 From pensions to Social Security, we delve into the nitty-gritty of handling your funds abroad, sharing personal experiences and practical advice along the way. Don't miss out on essential tips for a hassle-free financial transition!
🚀 Hit that play button and let's dive into the world of Philippine finances together! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more valuable insights! 💡
‪@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234‬

[@mikedavis975]

Good information Paul and Mae. Nice to see you both doing so well. It's always good to have a backup to your backup. My first trip there in 2003 the ATM ate my debit card. I had never seen that before. It's one thing to have the transaction denied but to actually not give the card back was pretty rude. Luckily I had a second card from another back. I used that very carefully the rest of my trip.

[@tomsorrell4918]

Do Debit Cards nowadays still get ate by ATM machines??? I'm afraid if I come to the Philippines that my bank ATM card will be eaten

[@Gregory-Masovutch]

Eating the ATM cards might be worse than when they don't disburse monies. You need the receipt and the go into the branch to file a report. Takes a few days to have the funds transferred back. This is with a Philippine debit card & bank account. Make sure you have multiple cards

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @mikedavis975 Thanks for watching! We're glad you enjoyed the video. ATMs can be tricky, even with backup cards!

[@lovinglife1962]

It's easier just to send yourself a WU as you need it or send it to your wife..either or. I have done this many times while there

[@lynnflynn5591]

Paul, you are a kind-hearted genius. Your wife is blest to have found you. A lifetime of happiness to you both. ❤

[@brucefredrickson9677]

Kind hearted but selfish knowing that her way too young wife will end up being his care-taker in a few years.

[@darrell3643]

@@brucefredrickson9677 But then she spends the rest of her life with a bit of income if they are married. I would guess that she would continue to get his SS but I don't know.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @lynnflynn5591 Thank you so much for your kind words!

[@ronaldhein5739]

You guys are a great couple. Much love to you both.

[@floribertosousa2251]

Hi Paul and Baby Mae,.. great 👍 informational video about money in the Philippines. Thanks and keep up the great work. God bless.

[@saulgoodman7221]

Hey Guys. Good topic. Money does matter anywhere.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @saulgoodman7221 Thanks for watching! We're glad to share our expat experience in Dumaguete.

[@jspice-kl2wc]

Great video and a lot of great information, thank you.

[@ThanaykhwamMai-ff4ni]

Very informative, Paul.thanks for ur infos/researches .surely ,u are w meticulous guy ,honest .God bless u and family ❤🎉🙏🙏👍👍🙏

[@michaelcassidy1864]

VERY IMPORTANT information Paul. Many expats are dependent on social security to live. My social security was cancelled by the department, and correctly so, because of my apparent failure to send the required paperwork to the department, they assumes I was dead. What happened was, as usual, the mail I'd sent the relevant forms via the Philippine postal service. Was unable to send via courier service because only a PO Box is provided. when they eventually received the forms in America I was advised via email form social security in Manila all was well and my social security would be paid in February 2024 and past months also would be paid. Ah, no. That didn't happen. I advised social security in Manila and will hopefully hear back from them before I die. Fortunately, although Im far from being rich, I'm modestly comfortable financially and don't depend on social security . But, and this is a big one, what about the many other expats living here who, through no fault of theirs, find themselves broke and perhaps hungry due to not receiving their hard earned social security benefits?

[@tomsorrell4918]

The US social security administration has an office in Manila ?

[@MichaelSmith-hr3be]

​@@tomsorrell4918: They do indeed. It's in the Federal Business Unit of the U.S. Embassy. They accept emails.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @michaelcassidy1864 Thank you for sharing your experience. It's a good reminder for us expats to stay vigilant with our paperwork.

[@MeryP24]

great video thanks for sharing this very Informative video..

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

One more good idea…have multiple bank accounts and credit cards with expiration dates that overlap. Because if you only have one card and it expires then you’re screwed.

[@fendermon]

Multiple wallets doesn't hurt either. I lost mine through a freakishly unlikely scenario, and it had literally everything in it. In another bizarre twist.. a stranger tracked me down and returned it intact. More likely to win the Powerball lottery.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @NapoleonDynamyte Thanks for the tip! We've found having multiple accounts helps with budgeting and avoiding issues when traveling.

[@paulbucklebuckle4921]

Great folks, great channel.

[@BuzzSargent]

This is the best video I have ever seen you do. You and Mae did a great job explaining the nuts and bolts of personal finance between the USA and the Philippines. Thank You!

[@user-nv8xi7pj2j]

😇great to see you this morning Paul you are getting really close to a hundred thousand subscribers 😁😎🎯 it won’t be long!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

You too!!

[@FREEDOM195844]

Both of you make such an incredible couple and it's obvious the love and trust you have for each other!

[@tombkk1322]

Great video, Paul. Transferring money is still my main concern. Thanks for covering this subject again.

[@African1939]

Hey Paul. Been watching you and your mate for some time now and can only say: Well done. Your videos are always informative, entertaining with a bit of humor, often at your own expense, which is refreshing. Glad to see you two are still together doing well during your twilight years. What a way to go out! Congratulations.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @African1939 Thanks for the kind words and support! We appreciate it.

[@martinedward2697]

Pretty Good Info Paul. What I did was file for Social Security in my local office. Easy. No problems. Direct to US bank account. My wife and I keep our US phones. Yes, our phone accounts cost $60. a month, but they work on Wifi, or even Globe. We can do business on our US phones. We can get calls just like at home, except when they call 3 in the morning! Wise has been the best. Sometimes, you have to re-do the ID info, which is a pain, but can be done.

[@Amen.22]

There’s US phone companies that charge around 5 or 10 dollars a month to use in the Philippines or other countries. Some are, Tello, US Mobile, and Mint Mobile. If you are In another country they work through Wi-Fi.

[@watersbey25]

Whats the name of the $5 or $10 company?

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @martinedward2697 Thanks for sharing your experience with Social Security and keeping US phones!

[@Jimmy_Duff]

Great info. Great to see how your subscriber base has grown.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @Jimmy_Duff Thanks, glad to share our experience!

[@oceandmike]

Great content! So fun to follow your journey. Thank you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks for watching!

[@jescagvil]

Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@therealityofit]

Good video, Paul, and very informative. Good job providing detailed information and expectations needed to move and live in the Phils.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wesgraham2262]

Paul, this is without a doubt one of the most valuable and useful videos anyone I know of has done for us expats. Thank you! Back in 2012 I opened an HSBC account near Ayala Mall in Cebu City and had a peso and a US dollar account with them. My trust in America wired the money into my dollar account once a month. I would get online at my apt. in Cebu and transfer whatever dollar amount into my peso account that I wanted to and then use my HSBC debit card locally at stores and restaurants. Never had a problem.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @wesgraham2262 Thanks for sharing your experience! We're glad it's been helpful. HSBC has been a good choice for many expats here.

[@stanleyboothe4893]

Watching now Paul and Baby Mae, this is very informative video. The immigration business JRC could add the "PROOF OF LIFE" to their business. im entertaining ( spoiling) Ms Jo this week on her spring break.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @stanleyboothe4893 Thanks for watching! We appreciate your feedback on our video's financial reality check. Enjoy Ms. Jo's spring break!

[@danielbeumel4165]

Tmobile is $70. Per month for the international plan. I will be moving to Cebu on the 29th, thanks to you and Mike hopefully I'm prepared. You 2 are the best!

[@jamesstryker9025]

Just a suggestion. Do a video about reporting your foreign bank account to the US Government if you are a US Citizen and your balance exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year.

[@stevedice5963]

Just use a tax preparer that routinely services expats. It's too risky doing it yourself tax.laws vary each year.

[@andrewh6898]

Thanks for the vlog Paul . This is a topic that cannot be covered enough. Whether your way or another way, it's a topic one should know inside and out. Many options are always good to have.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @andrewh6898 Appreciate the support! I'm glad this topic resonates with you. Thanks for watching!

[@IrAbynormal]

Great video Paul, I find the information in this one so valuable I have downloaded it. Thank you for your clarity when it comes to planning a move to a distant land and all the matters to consider before doing so.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @IrAbynormal Thanks for finding it valuable! We're glad to help others navigate the financial realities of moving abroad.

[@user-lx6vw8tq3u]

Very inspiring couple even though I changed my mind on going over there when I watched this video. I'm inspired.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-lx6vw8tq3u Thanks for watching and being inspired! We're glad to have had a positive impact.

[@troymoses8405]

Thanks Paul and Mae for sharing, God’s blessings to the both of you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @troymoses8405 Thanks so much! We appreciate your kind words and prayers.

[@aggierowe9574]

I’ve been following your channel for awhile and this video was so informative. Thank you so much for the different ways to get money there. Keep up the great work you two❤

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @aggierowe9574 Thanks for watching! We're glad you found the info helpful. Appreciate the support!

[@paulmackie5622]

good info, good video

[@Amen.22]

This the first detailed information on this important topic that I’ve seen. You and others have touched on it once in a while, but I still didn’t understand the whole thing. Thanks for explaining it more clearly.

[@nottelling620]

HI PAUL and MAE , I am 1 of your TOP CRAZY FANS , that saidTY for all your important help you give us. HAPPY EASTER GOD BLESS CIAO

[@Dragon_rls]

Thanks Paul, and Ms. Mae. I’m retiring in less than 5 years, and y’all have been a fantastic resource. Take care 👍

[@donbuesen3558]

Thank you Paul, great video. Nice to see a updated subject.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @donbuesen3558 Appreciate your support! Glad I could provide an update on this important topic.

[@KanoKanding]

Very thorough. Though I’ve not experienced the same difficulty, I know many who have. Great advice Paul. In sum: you cannot over prepare. 👍🏼

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @KanoKanding Thanks! We agree, preparation is key to a smooth transition.

[@Lawrencerice]

Love your yellow rubber duckie. I still have a purple Barney the dinasaur figure from when the kids (now 30ish) were little. Barney is coming with me as my touch of home.😊

[@brucejones8047]

I do wire transfers from my bank in the USA to a Philippines bank. Pretty easy and no fees. The downside is it may take several working days to complete the transaction.

[@jamesberner6040]

Paul and Mae...Great video with good information...Thanks Paul and Mae.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jamesberner6040 Thank you!

[@phill7573]

All very good and helpful info, Paul. Everyone needs to do some research and planning and always have a backup plan. BTW, I've been watching you for several years, and your looking even younger now. Your diet and lifestyle is working for you!

[@kenmiller9]

Bank of Hawaii and Fedrral Credit Unions call your Philippine number for 2 step verification. No need a U.A. number.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @phill7573 Thanks so much! Means a lot coming from a long-time viewer. We're glad to share our experiences with others.

[@steve1711]

Hi Paul Been subscribed for ages - love the videos. Recently had a month on holiday in the Philippines from the UK. Couldn't get over how cheap it was compared to Europe. All UK banks and credit cards say don't need to inform them if you go abroad. But they often send a text with a one time code to your phone - this worked well, just had to remember to use the UK SIM to receive the text. (dual sim phone was very useful)

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @steve1711 Thanks for subscribing and enjoying the vids! Glad you experienced the affordability of the Philippines firsthand!

[@gregwil694]

Send the first Zoom, Remitly etc to yourself in the Philippines while you're still in the States for that confirmation call.

[@MichaelSmith-hr3be]

The funds receiving method described here was the norm in years past, but nowadays there's no need to bother with so many steps to move money from overseas. Just bank directly with Schwab or Fidelity, and/or set up a GCash or similar mobile banking account and transfer funds into it using the service of your choice. There's always a fee, either openly stated or hidden in the exchange rate difference, so it's not about saving a few bucks; it's about convenience and personal safety.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @MichaelSmith-hr3be Thanks for the update! We've found GCash to be super convenient too.

[@JMoroccoMisterBoy]

Old Dog Paul and the Lovely Mae, good useful info. Tks., much appreciative.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @JMoroccoMisterBoy Thanks for watching!

[@ThanaykhwamMai-ff4ni]

I alwys enjoy watching ur videos when u interview any foreigner .u r not only humorous but witty ,a joker. 😂😂❤.ur laughter is contagious too😂😂😂👍👍👍Cheers🎉🎉

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @ThanaykhwamMai-ff4ni Thanks for the kind words! Glad you enjoy our expat interviews and my attempts at humor!

[@vec306]

Paul your heart exceeds 99.99% of the population.

[@larryp759]

I have been to the Philippines 6 times and never had a money problem. I call my credit union letting them know where I am going. So I use cash machines and pay a few bucks to do that. Or go to a bank and get my cash and pay a small fee. I have done all my banking online for years so when I am there I just use my laptop to move money to checking and that account is the one I draw money out of. It is safe and my credit union is the best.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @larryp759 Thanks for sharing your experience! We've had similar success with cash machines and online banking, it's a great way to manage finances while traveling.

[@LowtechLLC]

Mae is much more talkative on her channel. I'm a big fan of both you guys. Your advice about the phone was helpful last month when I went to Cebu. I used a credit card at SM seaside to buy a phone, but the bank had to text my U.S. number to allow the transaction. I wouldn't have known to set up an international phone plan if I hadn't seen you videos. The trip went so well after that. Also I hired Glenn from PRC LLC as a guide, which was worth more that 3x what I paid.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @LowtechLLC Thanks for the kind words and glad our advice helped! We're happy to have made a positive impact on your trip to Cebu.

[@pauldeanda4985]

Thank you for sharing this info! I just subscribed to your channel bc of your willingness to share such info.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @pauldeanda4985 Thanks so much, appreciate the support!

[@brent2438]

Thanks, big Daddy! Very informative video.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @brent2438 Thanks, buddy! Glad you found it helpful.

[@TheEllenjoy1]

Wow! Paul is looking younger n younger than ever before👍

[@tryscience]

Paul, Thank you so much for this excellent video, your advice should help other expats avoid a lot of painful mistakes. Much appreciated!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @tryscience Thank you for watching and I'm glad my experience can help others!

[@CumbiaDancer5678]

Excellent video!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks so much 👍

[@user-ot6ew6os6r]

This video is a godsend. I am currently going through financial woes, for the second time. I was using Remitly, but they closed my account without warning, saying I violated a policy of theirs. I have not tried to use my Debit card. Because of the bank fees and I have been told you can only withdraw ten thousand pesos at a time. I will look into zoom and wise.

[@NONAME-kw3pu]

Good information

[@danmcqueen5295]

Thanks you two, another great video!

[@MyLifeThai371]

Congratulations on 91,000 subscribers!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @MyLifeThai371 Thanks for watching and supporting our channel!

[@ValslifeHealthJourney]

Great advice

[@dondunne5615]

Thank you for another informative vlog. You know you will be doing this again somewhere down the road.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @dondunne5615 Appreciate the kind words! We'll keep sharing our financial journey in Dumaguete.

[@johnmurphy8791]

Thanks, you Old Dog. This was very informative. Like your prior videos on a myriad of topics. Namaste

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @johnmurphy8791 Thanks for watching, Namaste!

[@yohanceamir224]

On my way, love the channel

[@monstadable]

Great stuff!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad you think so!

[@Manila-sb3sn]

Good morning to you both!!

[@geofffletcher2539]

Thankyou for the great info on bringing money to the philipines from your home bank.great video..thankyou. .

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @geofffletcher2539 You're welcome! Glad you found it helpful.

[@loneranger668]

Good information. You two stay safe and happy!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @loneranger668 Thanks for watching! We appreciate your kind words.

[@Niftynorm1]

First rule of personal finance 'pay yourself first!' Also for disabled vets receiving payment from the VA, once you are at 80% or more you can petition them to pay you at 100% for being unemployable. It is worth looking into.

[@sbkpilot1]

I've had a Schwab account for 15+ years and have had only a few hundred dollars in there, I have not been cut off

[@napoleonmdusa8877]

but is it a Schwab brokerage account with IRAs where you have to sell shares in a IRA to get money while living in the Philippines for more than 6 months?

[@stevedice5963]

@napoleonmdusa8877 yes paul needs to clarify if the experience relates to the brokerage account or investor checking ATM card. It's confusing

[@scottmason6282]

Good Evening Paul And Mae , Great Video ! Hope Both Of You Have A Wonderful Night ! 🥰🥰🥰🙏🙏🙏💯💯💯

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

You too!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

You too!!

[@scottmason6282]

@@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234 Thank You !

[@JosephThompson-mu4ey]

Hi Paul, Great video. Its my understanding that we can only bring $10K to the Philippines or any foreign company. You mentioned $14K. That amount maybe problematic but maybe doable if accepted at customs and immigrations at the entry airport. For the safety net currency it maybe a good idea to have no more than $10K while entering the Philippines are any foreign country for the emergency safety fun. Credit cards are doable but there maybe a daily limit on the amount of cash allowed for withdrawal per day. Thanks for sharing your experiences with fellow expats. Opening foreign bank accounts are doable but have to be reported on our annual tax return.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @JosephThompson-mu4ey Thanks for correcting me! You're right, I apologize for the mistake. We'll keep that in mind when traveling. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@stan1027]

Thanks Paul and Mae! Another great video!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@L4P-Monk]

Great job Paul. It’s a lot of mechanics that well you don’t know until you know. I have bank accounts in Thailand and the Philippines. I have Wise which gives me a great exchange rate and a debit card that I can use as a backup plan. Been in Southeast Asia going on 4 years now and knock on wood no problema. Another thing I’d like to add is timing. Know your country’s bank holidays and where you are sending the money. You can then better deal with the delay. Also holidays here mean the atm will not have money. Plan accordingly. You can adapt. You can live the dream. Just remember everyone’s dreams are different. If you try to do everything like Paul but you are not Paul… you might fail. Take his advice as a starter. Work on your plan. Stay true to yourself. You will be happy. You got this.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @L4P-Monk Thanks for the tips and insights! Wise sounds like a helpful tool, glad it's worked out well for you!

[@Geoff10181]

Thanks Paul

[@ronaldhein5739]

Great info. Thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad it was helpful!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad it was helpful!

[@PauldeSilvaG]

That's very good advise from one who's been there, done that. I love listening to your accounts and stories Paul.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @PauldeSilvaG Thanks for tuning in! Appreciate your support.

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

Your approach is the best in my opinion

[@StephenOstrander-ij6mi]

good info rmation

[@Thomas-qm8gd]

Happy Easter to you and Mae and all

[@4KVideoPlaces]

Paul! This Brilliant piece of information, just showed me that I was Unprepared to take the necessary steps needed to enjoy my retirement in the Philippines. Thanks to you & May I now have the right mind set regarding the things I need to do!

[@vn6714]

PAUL AND MAY THANK YOU BOTH SO MUCH GREAT INFO AND MUCH APPRECIATE YOUR DETAILS VERY HELPFUL 😊

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @vn6714 Thanks for watching and appreciating our financial reality in Dumaguete!

[@thomaseck4867]

Thx Saint Paul

[@joelalm5215]

Viber helps so much. It's good your explaining what really needs to be done to be successful in living there in the Philippines. You need to and it's a suggestion to only publish your plan that works so others can follow what you have done to be successful in not having situations or problems being in the Philippines. Kindest Regards. Joel Alm

[@george1-nu5ey]

Thank you two so much for getting this information out. I just got back from a three week vacation March 1-23 on Negros awesome time by myself getting on the motorbike and going up in the mountains. It was all I could do to not to reach out to you just come shake your hand. Thank you so much for getting me out of my comfort zone. I probably had one of the best time I’ve ever had all bye myself. Thank you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

My pleasure

[@crazygunny66able]

I live in Lima Peru and use Western Union with no problems

[@RandytheTraveler]

Google voice is great....use a VPN with it...act like your in usa. I had Google voice for 20 years and have traveled. around the world with it. I never paid for using it ever. Of course I set it up with T mobile us number to do this.

[@L4P-Monk]

Yep. Google voice. Zero monthly fees. I only paid to port my number. Since then. The cost is zero.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @RandytheTraveler Thanks, that's a great tip! We've used Google Voice too, love how flexible it is.

[@Corolla97ww]

Great advice, Paul.

[@robertbodnaruk6710]

Thanks!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thank you Robert 😊

[@Fire2Hot911]

Paul your absolutely correct. I have been going to the Philippines since 2008. And so many things have changed. I have not expensive SS asking for prove of life. But it got me thinking what if. Thank you Paul for bringing this up. I need to handle all this while I am I usa till end of the month

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @Fire2Hot911 Thanks, glad to hear I'm on the same page! Good luck with your financial planning before your trip back home.

[@CB-bp2fl]

Don’t forget if you ever exceed 10,000 USD in an overseas bank account at any point in a year you will have to do the FBAR with USA Dept of Treasury

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

correct

[@damonmelendez856]

Does the Philippines report to the IRS? Probably, F the USA, it’s really none of their business, just trying to shake us down for every $ so they can send it to Israel (Our Greatest Ally!) in order to kill children.

[@lqsi12]

thanks for that info !

[@papabear007]

What is FBAR?

[@Lawrencerice]

IRS watching you, supposedly to combat money laundering. If you fail to report, expect 100% fines or more. They are just itching for an excuse to steal your money. ​@papabear007

[@Mr.Schultz]

Thank you for the video, very informative

[@lavonyoung2366]

Great video. This video should be required viewing for all expats coming to the Philippines. My numbers are slightly different, I have slightly higher income, but all of the principles are the same. The one thing that nobody seems to mention. I had problems in Cebu City with finding a Cebuana that had enough cash if I transferred more than a $1,000. I have not had that problem here in Dumaguete.

[@edgarwangsmo6]

❤-its a pleasure to watch you ; and listen to your welspokeness .

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @edgarwangsmo6 Thank you for your kind words!

[@corykneller]

Hi Pual ! I love this video I met my Filipina (born and raised in Manila )in 1996 and we got married in 1999 here in the USA. I am 50 years old and she is 48. We we both have a 401(k). And we have silver and gold investments. And a Roth IRA . We are just waiting to save up for that magic number to bridge the gap to 60yrs old .. (draw off my 401k) hoping to retire within the next 3 to 5 years in the Philippines. We have made a few trips there over the years and absolutely love it. I’m looking forward to seeing more videos like this from you in the future.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @corykneller Thanks for sharing your experience! Great to hear about your plans for retirement in the Philippines.

[@jamesrobinson7381]

great advice

[@AnthonyShaw-ty9pi]

Fantastic info!! 👍🎩👍 Thx

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @AnthonyShaw-ty9pi Thanks! Glad you found it helpful!

[@ericlambert9899]

Thank you

[@hborogreg]

Hi Paul and Baby Mae! I just want to thank you both personally for doing what you do! I'm a 59 year old never married RN of 30 years, looking seriously at the total retirement plan that will hopefully end up in the Philipines! I've been watching all of your videos very carefully. Thank you both for your caring hearts for guys back home in the US who aspire to fufill the goal of retirement in the Philippines! I encourage you both and mega THANK YOU for being sincere caring people who care and want to encourage US guys to become Ex Pats in Philippines for retirement, you help sort it all out, (HUGE!) and do it right without reinventing the wheel. Please continue to do these practical How To videos like this! Paul, you are the GOAT! Phillipines You Tuber!!! I love your down to earth real world videos, God Bless You and Mae, I hope to be there doing the same thing in a few short years, daily you provide me with the encouragement that I can make this happen in a few short years. God Bless You Both, don't change, and keep your real world videos coming! You are positively changing lives. I pray I can be there in a few short years!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @hborogreg Thanks for the kind words and for watching our channel! We're happy to help with your retirement plans. Good luck!

[@CJtheGen-X]

"something clicked in my head" ... YES! This happened to me a couple weeks ago, while I am madly selling all of my hard fought for possessions! "selling this will buy me a small bit land", "This give me 3 months of a humble life", "This will give me 10", etc... Now all I think about is how i can build that little Nest Egg of money before I leave in July! (I am SO excited to be leaving Canada!) Thanks again for your ex-pat thoughts and insight to the North American shift to Philippines way of life :) I am thinking of a little channel as well to document the Shift from a western Canadian to ex-pat in Philippines ! Amping! Salamat!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @dachshundad YES! That's the spirit!

[@user-fs3ws4br2d]

Thank you Paul and Ms Mae for this information.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-fs3ws4br2d You're welcome!

[@midlifewanderings]

Thanks, Paul. We'll be arriving in the Philippines this June and had I not watched this video I wouldn't have known about keeping a US number. I believe we have all our ducks in a row by the time we leave for the Philippines except the phone so thank you very much.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Very welcome

[@paulv5233]

Hi Paul & Lovely Mae Great Vlog and great advice, I spend most my time in Thailand, home at the moment in Dublin sorting out a few things here. I’ve got similar situation and the same idea as you always have back up money for the rainy day. I had a incident a few months ago when I had a medical emergency had to go to a Private hospital for urgent treatment and I was traveling home two days later cost me $1000 lucky I had the back up account and cards if needed. I also had medical travel insurance on my credit card so was refunded nearly 2/3 of the outlay. As you say keep a bank account open in your home country and draw down on it. Keep up the great work Cheers Irish Paul

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @paulv5233 Thanks, Irish Paul! Glad to hear we're not alone in having financial woes as expats. Backup money saved us too!