Information Seminars WBFN Information Seminars

The Family Network annually sponsors a series of seminars on topics of recurring interest to WBG families. Seminars are well attended and the feedback is always very positive. (Programs are open only to WBFN members, unless otherwise specified.)

Estate Planning in the US

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Guest Speaker: Nicholas M. Fobe, Esq., VERSTEGEN & FOBE

It cannot be emphasized enough how important it is to be aware of US Law in this regard, to understand your options and prepare for them. Conscientious planning in the preparation of documents such as wills, power of attorney etc. can make a considerable difference regardless of the period of stay in the US.


Estate Tax in the US

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: TBA
Guest Speaker: Bob Len, CPA, MST, Wolf Group International Tax & Business Consultants

A presentation on how US estate tax rules impact non-US nationals; how residency and non-residency status is determined; assets subject to the tax special rules for non-US nationals; etc. Careful planning can result in significantly lower amount of estate taxes.


Being Prepared—Planning for Family Emergencies

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: TBA
Guest Speakers: Maria Stamoulous, Esq.

When moving to a new country, it is important to understand how the law applies here in your everyday life as well as in crisis situations. In the US, it can be crucial to have established certain documents-powers of attorney, wills, etc. and have easy access to your records at all times.


Work Authorization for Spouses with G-4 Visas

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date:TBA
Guest Speaker: Linda Hoffman, Immigration Lawyer; Juan Alvial, World Bank HR Service Center

The process of applying for work authorization can take a long time. For many WBG spouses this can mean a great deal of frustration in their search for and chances of landing a job that meets their qualifications. This presentation will clarify where the difficulties lie and what to expect.

 


US Income Tax—Preparing and Paying

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Guest Speaker: Guest Speaker: Bob Len, CPA, MST, Wolf Group International Tax & Business Consultants

Mr. Len will discuss income tax planning and compliance for non-US citizens, including determination of tax resident status and the taxation of resident tax payers versus non-resident tax payers. Special attention will be paid to income sourcing rules for non-residents and planning strategies for couples when one spouse is a citizen or resident and the other is not.

 

 


How to Qualify for Permanent Residence in the US

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: TBA
Guest Speaker: Mark Urbanski, Attorney At Law, American Immigration Lawyers Association

There are many ways to qualify for permanent residence in the US, some complicated and some uncomplicated. Well ahead of applying, it is crucial to know and understand in detail what exactly is required in your own particular situation and plan accordingly (travel, resident mission, your children’s education, etc.)

 

 


Pension—Why Planning Ahead is so Crucial

Time:
11:00am-12:00pm; Gross Pension Plan (Joined WBG on or prior to April 14, 1998)
1:00pm-2:00pm; Net Pension Plan (Joined WBG after April 14, 1998)
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Dates: Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Guest Speaker: Kerry Mack, Manager, World Bank Pension Administration

The presentation will help you better understand your options and point out issues of particular importance. This is also an opportunity to ask questions and get further clarification on certain aspects of the World Bank Retirement Plan.

 


World Bank Benefits—What you Need to Know

Time: 11:00am-1:00pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building J1-050
Dates: TBA
Guest Speaker: TBA

This seminar is an excellent opportunity for WBG spouses to be updated on any recent changes and to get a better understanding of how your benefits work for you. A World Bank Benefits professional will present a thorough overview of most of your benefits. A whole range of benefits apply in different ways depending on each case and each situation. There will be ample time for Questions & Answers.


How to Prepare for the Flu Season

Time: 11:00am-12:30pm
Venue: The World Bank J Building Room J1-050
Date: TBA
Guest Speakers: Iouri Bairatchnyi, Manager, World Bank HRS Global Mobility
Dr. Bernard Demure, Director, World Bank Health Services Department

The World Bank Group is preparing for the Flu Season. There is a strong belief that the coming flu season might be more serious than usual, especially since the appearance of the swine flu last spring. Come and learn what measures the Bank Health Department is taking to prepare and what you can be doing for your family. This seminar could be especially helpful for those with children or who are taking care of elderly parents.