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Originally Posted by Ms B
What should I/can I reasonably ask for as part of a relocation package?
Does health insurance tend to cover dentistry and opticians or would I need something separate?
I have heard that in Florida there is no income tax, if true; are there other taxes to make up for this?
How do people cope with the Florida heat?
I have an English driving licence, would I also need an American one?
Are American employers adopting flexible-working policies or do they already have them?
I plan to keep making National Insurance contributions but what should I do about a private pension?
Can I buy orange squash out there?
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A relocation package for an international move "normally" consists of removal costs (and sometimes the company makes most of the arrangements), some provision for accommodation on arrival (1 to 3 months while you're locating suitable housing) and there is sometimes (often?) an extra one month's salary on arrival to cover the cost of replacing small appliances, televisions, etc. It's also not too uncommon to include a one or two week pre-move trip for the family to scout out the general area, meet colleagues, etc. Some international relocation packages will include a trip back home once a year - but only if you're on an "expat package." Many employers base their relocation costs on the IRS guidelines for those expenses that are deductible for tax purposes, so you could take a look at the official publication on moving expenses:
Publication 521 (2007), Moving Expenses
Employer based health insurance may or may not cover dental and eye care. Or there may be an add-on you can elect.
Florida has no individual state income tax, but it does have a sales tax. For more on Florida taxes, try this site:
State of Florida.com - Florida Tax Guide (but don't let it overwhelm you - it's a listing of ALL Florida taxes, for businesses and individuals).
The heat in Florida? That's why they invented air conditioning. EVERYTHING in the US is air conditioned - buildings, cars, houses, trailers...
Most states in the US want you to get a local license within 10 to 30 days of moving in. (Figure that is moving into your "permanent accommodation" - not while you're looking to find a flat or house to rent.) Check the Florida DMV (dept. of motor vehicles) site:
Obtaining Your Florida Driver License - they require lots of documentation, but basically you may be able to exchange your UK license for a Florida license (once you have your Soc. Security number and can prove you are legally in the country).
Flexible working policies are entirely at the discretion of the employer. Some companies have them, and some don't. You have to ask when you're interviewing. But be aware that labor regulation in the US is very different from in the UK or Europe. In an "exempt" job (i.e. salaried rather than being paid an hourly wage) they can expect you to work extra hours for no additional pay.
Assuming you will be working while in the US (see previous visa discussion) - there are a couple different deferred tax savings plans for pensions that you could participate in - usually either an IRA (which is a savings plan) or a 401K, which is an employer sponsored plan, usually with some level of matching funds. Whether or not to participate in something like that depends a bit on how long you'll be in the US. If you can continue to pay into your private pension plan in the UK while you are gone, that might be a simpler option.
I've heard of orange squash, but I have never tried it. There are online sites where you can have it shipped to you anywhere in the world (I think). And, if you find an enclave of Brits nearby in Florida, there is bound to be a "British goodies" shop open somewhere.
Keep 'em coming....
Cheers,
Bev