A Retirement Planning Guide for Moving Across the Canada- U.S. Border Lucas Wennersten
Crossing the 49th Parallel
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About
Lucas Wennersten
Lucas Wennersten brings a wealth of expertise in cross-border financial planning, specializing in wealth management, tax optimization, and retirement strategies for individuals navigating finances between Canada and the U.S. As both a CFA and CFP® licensed in the U.S. and Canada, Lucas offers a rare dual-country perspective that is essential for clients with complex cross-border needs. His career began in 2014 in Arizona, where he developed a strong foundation in U.S.-based investment and tax strategies. In 2019, he relocated to Toronto, immersing himself in the Canadian financial system and building a nuanced understanding of the interplay between the two countries’ regulations and opportunities.
Having personally experienced the challenges of cross-border relocation with his wife and four homeschooled children, Lucas understands on a deep, personal level the emotional and logistical complexities clients face during such transitions. He draws on this experience—not just as a planner, but as someone who’s walked the same path—to offer practical, empathetic guidance. His approach is marked by clarity, thoroughness, and a strong commitment to helping clients align their financial plans with their long-term life goals. From retirement distribution strategies to currency-aware investment portfolios and estate planning, Lucas designs personalized solutions to help clients thrive on both sides of the 49th Parallel™.
Author, Founder and Owner
Lucas Wennersten
CFA, CFP® (U.S. & Canada)
Lucas Wennersten, CFA, CFP® (U.S. & Canada), is the founder of 49th Parallel Wealth Management and a leading expert in Canada-U.S. cross-border wealth management. With designations as both a Chartered Financial Analyst and a dual-licensed Certified Financial Planner™, Lucas specializes in helping individuals navigate the tax, retirement, and investment complexities of life spanning two nations.
His personal journey from Arizona to California, then across the border to Canada and back, mirrors the path of many clients he now serves. Drawing on over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, Lucas combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the emotional and logistical challenges of cross-border transitions.
Crossing the 49th Parallel is both a professional guide and a personal reflection; born during quiet moments amid a growing family, a global pandemic, and a demanding consulting role. Lucas lives in Surprise, Arizona with his wife and four children, where he continues to guide others toward confident, intentional cross-border living.
Quick Overview
Navigate Cross-Border Retirement with Confidence
Crossing the 49th Parallel is your essential guide to the financial, tax, and legal complexities of retiring between Canada and the United States. Written by cross-border financial expert Lucas Wennersten, this clear, practical resource empowers you to make informed decisions about everything from transferring investments and accessing healthcare to estate planning and tax optimization. Whether you’re a Canadian moving south or an American heading north, this book offers the tools and strategies you need to retire securely and confidently across borders.
Story Of The Book
Crossing the 49th Parallel was inspired by Lucas Wennersten’s own journey of living and working on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border.
Journey
Research
Writing
Release
Blog
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OAS Clawback Non-Resident Rules for US Retireesby Lucas on October 12, 2026 at 6:31 pm
Moved from Canada to the US? How the OAS clawback non-resident rules work, why the treaty usually removes the recovery tax, and what to file for 2026.
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Section 338 Canada Import Ban Is Live: What Travelers Faceby Lucas on October 12, 2026 at 2:47 pm
Five proclamations signed 8 September 2026 move specified Canadian alcohol, dairy and motor-vehicle goods from a 50 percent duty to exclusion from importation on 29 September. What the shift from Section 338(a) to 338(b) changes for cross-border households.
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PRWORA Refundable Credits: The Rule That Reaches Lawful Canadiansby Lucas on October 12, 2026 at 1:27 pm
Treasury's REG-119882-25 would designate the refunded portion of four tax credits a Federal public benefit under PRWORA. The qualified-alien list is closed, and nonimmigrant work visas are not on it. Comments close 5 October 2026.