Since you have not yet decided where to stay permanently, I suggest rent a condo or apartment that is furnished so you don't have to buy stuff yet. Buy the household items once you've made a decision where to settle permanently. It'll be easier for you to move if you don't have a lot of stuff to worry about moving.
Ikea in Manila is a good place to buy home furnishings. They will even deliver big items. Another option for airport pickup is to use hotel transportation. That is if your hotel offers that service.
I could be wrong but income from the house rent (if that is all this individual is relying on for retirement) may not be enough to retire in the Philippines. For those who are still young and able and are planning to retire decades from now, make sure to SAVE and INVEST. It could be 401K or 403B, Life insurances, Roth RIAs, CDs (certificate of Deposits) and on and on. Note that as an example a $250,000.00 CD can bring in as much as $12,000 to $15,000 a year. Some banks have higher rates. Retirement is the time when you want your money to work for you so you can just relax later on in life and not have to stress when medical emergencies start to knock on your doorsteps.
I like how you approach your answer focusing on health, I am nurse in states and tried to live for good along with my family in Philippines, but did not work for us after few months.I my self was shock when I experienced the traffic, very hot weather and cost of medical/hospitalization, even you buy medical insurance there still hard to make your cost less because insurance company there doesn’t cover all illnesses,my husband and I are still young and we have kids so we decided to come back here in state. I could save more money here with my job than staying in Philippines.I guess it depends where you stay, we probably have to stay on province next time.
I opened a Chase acct here in USA when I went home to Phil, I have a Debit card which can access my Chase money in any ATM internationally, fee is 5$ per ATM, but if you have 75K in your acct all transactions are free. My sister has been retired in the Phil for 12 yrs now and uses Chase bank too..
I’m using a Schwab debit card. They reimburse all ATM fees at the end of the month. Also, l prefer to use BPI 🏧 because they give a better exchange rate.
Airport pick-up is not necessary. There's an awesome & beautiful pedestrian bridge from the airport over the main Highway to a main street where there are hotels (Palm Hotel) a grocery store, a pharmacy, a beautiful Mall everything you need all within 6 blocks from the Palm Hotel which is a decent hotel.
For a foreigner married to a Filipina who wants to retire to the Philippines, it would be very advantageous because your pension (US dollars) for instance times 55 pesos certainly would go a long way.
that depends if you have a house (no mortgage) to live in; relatives not living in your house, safe place (not all places in the PHL) is safe my fren...
YES VPN sometimes are not allowed due to anti virus or strong firewall protocols. If self protection isn't needed, just go back to local ISP to make secure connection locally.
If my only source of income were a rental property, I would never consider selling it, unless it's a multi million dollar property, and if I had a secure investment vehicle that would replace my rental profits, while adding to the principle
Stinky sink due to empty P-traps. The plumbing system needs to be vented. When you flush the toilet the water creates a powerful vacuum that sucks the water out of the kitchen sink P-trap. A vent pipe needs to be added to the kitchen sink and the toilet with an inexpensive vent that opens and allows air in when the water is flushed preventing a vacuum throughout the pipes.
Dan, just like you I do not use travel agents for my international flights. BUT I recommend that you avail of travel agents for your domestic flights to other parts of the country. The reason is that domestic flights are eligible for senior discounts. When you buy your ticket online, the senior discount cannot be applied. But the travel agent can apply the discount for you since you can show them your senior ID. When we went to Boracay, I found the cheapest fare on Air Asia. I then asked the travel agent if they could match the online price. They matched the online price and then I showed them my Quezon City Senior ID. My final ticket price was the online price minus 20% senior discount and a waiver of the 12% VAT (part of senior citizen privileges).
@@marianeil6630 No, senior discounts only apply to domestic flights. Any travel agent that you can find in the mall can apply the senior discount for you. Find the best online ticket price first and then ask the travel agent to match it.
That person said they just got their Phillipine passport, they can open an account online with Union Bank Philippines. The downside is they'll need a local number. Thanks for sharing this
@@Western-3rdSt. once your device has been added and verified, your OTP will show up on your device automatically. Now this is only on your mobile phone. Web base still sends the OTP to the number on file
bottom line there is no perfect place! the best place is where you are happiest most even without the comforts. besides you really dont need to stay in one place lang. if you can afford it, travel, see places. unless you try and experience it yourself, you will never know. so immerse , feel, see , taste and smell each place. be local!
Hey Aussie here, been living in Phils for 8 years. Tito answered most of your questions , but if you have any more let me know . With regard to keeping an Aussie mobile number, telstra or other carriers have pre paid long life plans for around $60 per year to keep your number active and receive calls and txt messages at no cost .
Don’t trust anyone ,be alert on anything you do ,if you have relatives ,try to communicate to them ,at least there’s someone besides ,your desicion moving here,
Australia is so close to the Philippines in comparison to the USA, I think the person should be willing to go back if necessary to make the move easier. Just FYI, the balikbayan box cost at my local Filipino Asian store to the Philippines is $200, I guess because I am in Arkansas with no big city or the coasts. I bought a one way ticket to Davao, and will get a throw away ticket because I don't know how long I will stay or when I fly back to the USA I might take a detour. My biggest problem is getting documents Apostilled for my retirement visa, some states are easy, mine is refusing to do it, yet I have seen others vloggers get the same documents approved in Arkansas. That is one problem I didn't expect to happen and since I already have my tickets, hotels and AirBnB booked I am going with our without documents for a retirement visa.
There are agents here in the Philippines who can help you for free if you're going for an SRRV. They get paid from the PRA, so no charge for the agent. These agents as well can get things appostilled quicker than you. They even know which ones say they need appostilled but really don't. Getting documents appostilled while living in PH can be a real headache, and that's why many use an agent. Good luck
Grandpa thank you for your advice. I'm a long time subscriber. I'm finally going home after 40+ years. I'm single female senior citizen, though still healthy. I'm scouting retiring in Philippines. I have relatives in Philippines but have not bonded with them, I've not met them in person so it's like I'm a stranger in a strange land. My question is how did you bring cash on your trip to PI?
I just brought some small cash with me, but my main expenses were funded from my bank account in the Philippines that I setup in 2016 or 2017 when I bought my condo. Also, use of credit cards whenever I can, but don't rely on it on online orders. Credit card is okay to use on large establishments and restaurants.
Thanks Grandpa. Another great video and lots of questions answered. The individual had lots of great questions and you were able to sort through them really well. No question that it is a HUGE step moving from one county to another. Lots of things to buy and do upon arrival. I hope it works for the person that sent the questions.....thanks again!
That austrailian who will use his house rent to support him in the Philippines is really risking everything. Rental of a property is never guaranteed as people die, get sick and move, house burns down, people lose their job and can't pay, etc. Therefore, it is a very bad choice for stable income. If he wants an SRRV down the road, I'm not sure that type of income could be used to qualify.
80% rent a property in Australia are safe , renters dont want to lose 4 weeks bond and you can set the condition what type of peole can rent your property. The problem is his rental income not enough to support his lifestyle with no friends, family or anyone else in a new country. In Manila , it cost everything the same like Australia in the supermarket , department stores, restaurant. He and Australian enjoy life everything so cheap in AUstralia: free medicare, cheap medicine ( a few dollars for each pack of medicine for people with no job and retires), cheap foods, cheap cloths etc. he watching youtube, and people telling him it cheap to live in the Philipine.
Test the condition for about a month, let you decide if the PHL is the place for you to retire. Not everything you see on TV news is perfect for everyone... no regrets later.
hey grandpa just like you in just came back after 3 years not seeing my condo. the p-trap and toilet did not dry up as i was expecting. i guess cuz it is humid hot in PI not dry hot. condo was dusty with a few dead roaches. lol. took a day to wipe things down. my condo offers a cleaning service but did not use. you might want to inquire with your condo admin. also, SIM registration in done when u buy the SIM card. they will take your pic and blink your eyes a few times. also if you need a ladder ask your maintenance to borrow one. Philippines Airlines is what you have said. Didnt care. the stewardess were nice and pilot landed safetly plus you are sorrounddd by your peeps
it would be nice if there was an online to do list of things to do when moving to the PH with links to relevant resources( and not a million videos on youtube)
You do not need to get a SIM inside the airport if you want to get a a Grab. Better to get a SIM outside later at your convenience and at probably better pricing. When you exit the terminal you will see a green Grab booth. The attendant will get you a Grab vehicle using their phone. Unlike North American Uber where you pay thru the app, with Grab you can pay the driver the pre-arranged and agreed upon amount at the end of the ride. I've had hotel front desk employees call me a Grab on their personal mobiles.
You can pay grab by registering your credit card. Thereafter, everytime you use grab, it get's charged to your credit card on file. Just like Uber or Lyft!
@@vloggergrandpa2707 I understand that. But to download the Grab app you must have a local Philippine number which is why you want to get a SIM in the airport. I'm just saying that instead of doing that, just use the Grab booth outside the terminal to get a Grab car and get the SIM later at your convenience.
Many people may not know that you can wire transfer for free, through your brokerage account in USA for unlimited amount. You only pay your local bank in Philippines. I have done this last week and I only paid five dollars for sending money through local bank in Philippines
Brokerage account is an account used for buying and selling stocks, bonds, mutual funds , and other securities. Brokerage companies are Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard , etc. ask them if they have free wire transfer before opening a brokerage account
@@Bellajane127 you can open a separate individual brokerage account with fidelity and you can use it to deposit money that you can wire transfer for free.
Better u visit a fidelity branch to open brokerage account and also fill up a fidelity wire transfer authorization form with bank details of your receiver for international wire transfers. They both can be done in one visit to the branch. You need the swift code of the Philippines bank and the account details.
Thanks for sharing your views Vlogger Granda! I really enjoy watching your channel. I want to comment on the telephone issue. Maybe creating a google voice account can help. Google voice will assign a (or you can even pick your own) phone number. Once you have it, you are free to go anywhere in the world and use that number. Since I am based in the US, I always use this whenever I visit the Philippines so I can call the US (or receive a call) as if I am here.
Will you please elaborate more on how to create this Google voice account. Planning to go to the Philippines soon and your suggestion sounds good. Thanks
That google voice will not work for 2FA that are used for authentication of credit card, banking, brokerage, and others. They even know if you are using vpn to cover your true location
Most banks can now detect an in coming call as to whether it is using a VPN... and they don't trust that, so they filter out these calls. At least that is how it goes with my banks in Canada.
So far I have not encountered that at my banks. I had problem accessing Amazon's Prime Video and Netflix without VPN, but when I turn on my VPN it worked very well.
Granpa, can I get an advice...I'm 55 will I have enough to go home like 100K.. that's all I have.. i'm ofw in U.S. .. can I build a modern small house and use the rest to build an apartment like 4 to 5 doors for xtra income to live on?
@@vloggergrandpa2707 I'd just like to keep it simple... I've watched other vloggers that other ofw has build house for reasonable price house and they are all nice for 13k dollars those have 3 to 4 bedrooms..I guess depends size house and what province... All I need just a 2 or 1 bedroom half size bedroom is all I need ....like I said apartment rental...maybe depends on budget..I may live in one the apartment too 🤣 there fore the Yes answer meant it can happen... the No part is the lifestyle... I lived enough of the highlights lifestyle here in U.S... I just miss back home!
@@AL-vw7kxas grandpa said, it will depend on your lifestyle. If you live in the province & buy land in the province, then your cost of living will be lower. If you plan to build apartments, try building just 2 or 4 first (2 up, 2 down). 1 small apartment (20 to 25 sqm) will now cost you ~500k to 600k pesos to build, if it's up to standard. (If you want to decrease costs, you can build substandard but good luck in getting permits and in maintenance costs!) If you plan to build a house/ apartments, I suggest to watch vlogs by Ingeniero TV and Architect Ed. It's also better if you're there to supervise the build. You could also construct a mixed use building. Example, you live on the 1st floor & you rent out apartments on the 2nd floor. Or you can make a triplex/ quadruplex building. One unit could be a 2-storey townhouse (for yourself), the other units could be 1-storey apartments for rent. The advantage in constructing a mixed use building is that you'll just spend/do the paperwork for 1 building permit, as well as hiring the architect, engineers, etc. Good luck.
Sir, Am Dual Pilipino US Citizen and turning 65, as retiree what shall I do when it comes to moving back to the Philippines do I still retain my Medicare Insurance plan B as plan A is automatic, and still buy my Medicare advantage , what the right things to do please share me your wisdom and thoughts with regards to these..thank You..
There is a lot to explain here. It's not an easy decision. And that is why I created a vlog that specifically address this question. Please check my Channel. Thank you.
Medicare Supplement Plan N, will cover emergency medical expense, upon presenting payments receipts to your insurance carrier. Think over several times before deciding to relocate back to the PHL.
think twice. youre about to let go life of convenience. consider the safety, the time and effort wasted from inefficencies and ineffectiveness of others. if aus is 20 years in advance, baka mabuwiset k lng dahil ang bagal ng buhay sa Pinas or baka mabuwiset sila sa yo bcoz you see the difference. vacation, yes! but not a permanent stay!
@@jayvirtusio1081 yeah, sanitation and cleanliness can be improved, same with healthcare, but in all places there are pros and cons. What I love are the tropical surroundings, the lush and green places , tropical fresh fruits and vegies , not frozen because of high turnover, cheap airfare for interisland travel or other nearby Asian countries. Polite and respectful service workers (for the most part) .
@@marites4 Tagal ko sa america 35 years at lahat ng family ko dyan.Sabi ko nga lahat automatic remote control (DIY)D2 pinas voice control paki turn on mo ang TV at paki punasan mo na din ang alikabok😂 you like that huh ?That's the truth!
This individual needs to reorganize his priorities, being young and no income, alone (very vulnerable by lonely love fans club), no established location to stay, big problem...
Grandpa, I’m on social security every month. I’m planning to move to the Philippines permanently. My question is; if I incur a problem with the SSA , is their an SSA office at the U.S. embassy in Manila that I can go to? If there is, can I resolve any problem as if I’m talking to the SSA office here in the U.S.? Thank you. You are always helpful.God bless you and your family.
Hay grandpa I purchased the magic jack but haven’t activated it yet it says it’s free calling to Canada and Mexico. It said I need to purchase minutes for other countries .. I’ll be using it in the Philippines you mentioned you paid 45 dollars same as I paid ?
I no longer have a Magicjack but when I did I bought the 5 year plan for about $100 = $20 a year. They only have the 3 year plan now for $109 so about $34 a year. I only used it to call Canada and the US from anywhere in the world. I never used it to call other countries including Philippines so never paid anything extra.
Vlogger Granpa, question po. My mother wants to move permanently to Manila. She's a greencard holder, not a US citizen yet. She's retired and receiving SS pension due to work here. Can she still get that pension while living in the Philippines and no longer wants to come back here in the US?
My Filipina wife works with a lot of green card holders, especially Latinos. Those people tell my wife they will lose a percentage of their social security benefits, unless they're American, or Dual, citizens...
@@tlc4417 Yes, you should be able to collect in the Philippines. Those whose benefit are affected probably are also receiving benefits from Philippines' Social Security Administration.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Yes, they can collect SS in Pinas, but I'm told non citizens take a cut in pay... Of course, if SSA has no idea you're permanently relocated, then the issue of one's citizenship would likely not come up .
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Welcome to the Philippines and inefficient internet service. The best option for high speed internet service in PH is fiber from PLDT or Globe. Problem is many earlier condos have not been provisioned with fiber. The newer condos are now being built with fiber in mind. If your condo unit has not been provisioned with fiber, your other option is cellullar WiFi equipment like Globe-at-Home ( PHP799 for the box) and you can just buy load for it. But internet speed is often marginal, depending on time of day.
@@92646snake i have the box o bought years ago and o just buy a load. As you said, the challenge is that it is very slow. I'm trying to get a home internet right now.
Thank you for the tip. I just called Sky Csble and they have the same plan. You can only suspend for 3 months. Just like Globe. I have a feeling that everyone has the same rocket!
Hi grandpa i live here in Daly City California planning to go back to the Philippines where i can buy the magic jack. Can i buy that in T mobile i using t mobile phone. Thanks
If you have a smart phone, MagicApp is better. You can just use your smart phone without having to use a conventional dial phone.. With Magic Jack, you need a conventional phone. You plug in the phone to your computer after you have logged into Magic Jack and use as a normal land line phone.
The call is not via a hardwired landline. Instead, it is connected to your Internet modem and calls are channeled through the Internet. Thus, if you don't have Internet service, it will not work. It also works on your smart phone and the Internet service need not be yours. Any unprotected service will do it.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Hey Grandpa, I was just referencing a friend of mine that had an older Magic jack device that hooked directly into his computer on one end and with a phone line output on the other end. he would then use a regular land line phone to make calls....he bought it years ago...so I am sure they have different ways of doing it now.
@@egovorch Even if your friend has the first Magic Jack device from years ago he can load the MJ app on his smartphone and then make and receive Magic Jack calls from his cellphone. This extra service will not cost him a penny.
Every condo unit is built with one. It’s required by law. I believe you’re not allowed to remove it. Ask your building admin about this issue, I suggest.
Have your Sea Treas check deposited to Vanguard Money market Fund. Withdraw monthly sked to be transfered to your local bank in the PHL, (BPI suggested).
@@mfrancisco4242 good advice. Everytime I go back to Manila ,my attempts to drive prove futile .It is different now with my advanced age compared when I was younger , besides too many motorbikes on the road now .
About the Bank account, I went to BDO and Metrobank, they will not open a bank account for me until I live 1 year in the Philippines. I arrived Nov 3rd 2022 so until November 2023 I can't open an account. even with ACR and driver license already issued.
Go to BPI, they are more knowledgeable about opening savings bank account to foreigners. U need to get a TIN, for filing income tax return...ID or passport, foreign bank account (where your funds coming from)...
A new subscriber here. I am enjoying all the info you are presenting. I was just wondering.....Do you know anything about General Santos City??? Is there a large expat community there? Is it a good place for a U.S citizen to retire to? Is it safe for foreigners? Thank you for all the info.
My fren, Gen San is not safe for foreigners, since it is the farthest down south of the country, with still existing conflict with muslim groups (MNLF,MILF,Abu Sayaff) NPA, local gangs, I'm from the PH, better believe me...
Grandpa, I'm here in Philippines and getting my monthly SS Benefit in one of the Banks here. This is the only income I have since the year I retired in 2011.and I belong to the Low Income Bracket Category. My question is regarding filing an Income Tax Return. My last Income Tax Return Filing was 2013 when I was still in California. When I did that, the lady who helped me in one of the Senior Places there advised me that since I belonged to Low Income Bracket Category and doesn't have any other income aside from this, she said it doesn't matter if I will not file my Income Tax anymore in the future provided my income category remains the same. Everything is still the same. Now, I want to know your opinion about this 'cause since 2014, I stopped filing my Income Tax Return. Am I still doing right? Hope to hear from you soon and please let me know the current figure for Low Income Category. Thank you so much and God bless you and your family always.
That is still correct. If your income is low and below the income threshold, and it most likely is if SS is all you are receiving, then no tax return need to be filed.
hi Vlogger Grandpa, I've been following your channel for quite a while now. I'm building a Megaworld Condo in Iloilo and the expected turn over would be sometime this year after almost 5 years now. Question: Is it true that your condo will deteriorate if you leave it vacant for a while. I see you have a condo in Manila and nobody is using it while you are here. I also notice you are not renting / Air BnB it. Can you give me a good advise what should I do with it? I dont plan to retire yet, maybe 3 more years so I need your expert opinion. Salamat po.
I will visit my condo shortly after being left vacant for three years. I'll let you know what condition it is in. Just be aware of headaches involved in renting. You will be very luck to get a good tenant who will take good care of your condo. It is a problem renting when you are there to manage it; it's even more of a headache when you are overseas. Again, if you are lucky to get a real good tenant, then it will be great!
Think 100x before deciding to buy a condo unit, if you will only use it for your short vacation trips. the expense of maintenance, insurance, HOA, etc. will drain your pocket...
Lolo, is it better to get SS at 62 or 67. I retired 2 years ago at age 59 . Now , I will be 62 in May . Am I going to lose a lot if I retire at 62. I need your help. Thanks Lolo.
You need a minimum of 10 working years in the US (40hrs/week) to get at least the minimum SSa benefits. You must be bored or you hate your job, your boss or co-workers, that's why you are thinking of retiring early. Why not get another or move to another job, where you get more satisfaction/recognition of what you do. there is o much unlimited choices, move on my fren.
Hello Grandpa! I am moving to the Philippines in April. I am required to pay Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments to the IRS. Can you give me an effective way to make these payments from the Philippines. Thank You, Sir!
Whether you are required to make estimated payments in US have nothing to do with being in the Philippines. You have to determine your taxes based on your WORLDWIDE income, then arrange to pay tax online. Here is the link: www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account
Before Covid 19, Philipine a perfect country for retirement . Now the altitude of society has change, if you are tourist or expat buy something in the supermarket or Mcdonald , KFC small meal , they judge you are a poor tourist or expat, you dont get that in Sydney. He from Sydney, an international city, got used to all kind of foods and supermarket offers discount product every weeks even cheaper then Philipine. You cant really find that in Manila. He going to realise it cost more expensive to live in Philipine than Sydney very soon and less fun . he eating lot of cheap vegetables in Sydney, Philipine not for vegetarian and it not good for old people and their health
Since you have not yet decided where to stay permanently, I suggest rent a condo or apartment that is furnished so you don't have to buy stuff yet. Buy the household items once you've made a decision where to settle permanently. It'll be easier for you to move if you don't have a lot of stuff to worry about moving.
Ikea in Manila is a good place to buy home furnishings. They will even deliver big items. Another option for airport pickup is to use hotel transportation. That is if your hotel offers that service.
I could be wrong but income from the house rent (if that is all this individual is relying on for retirement) may not be enough to retire in the Philippines.
For those who are still young and able and are planning to retire decades from now, make sure to SAVE and INVEST. It could be 401K or 403B, Life insurances, Roth RIAs, CDs (certificate of Deposits) and on and on. Note that as an example a $250,000.00 CD can bring in as much as $12,000 to $15,000 a year. Some banks have higher rates. Retirement is the time when you want your money to work for you so you can just relax later on in life and not have to stress when medical emergencies start to knock on your doorsteps.
I like how you approach your answer focusing on health, I am nurse in states and tried to live for good along with my family in Philippines, but did not work for us after few months.I my self was shock when I experienced the traffic, very hot weather and cost of medical/hospitalization, even you buy medical insurance there still hard to make your cost less because insurance company there doesn’t cover all illnesses,my husband and I are still young and we have kids so we decided to come back here in state. I could save more money here with my job than staying in Philippines.I guess it depends where you stay, we probably have to stay on province next time.
I opened a Chase acct here in USA when I went home to Phil, I have a Debit card which can access my Chase money in any ATM internationally, fee is 5$ per ATM, but if you have 75K in your acct all transactions are free. My sister has been retired in the Phil for 12 yrs now and uses Chase bank too..
I’m using a Schwab debit card. They reimburse all ATM fees at the end of the month. Also, l prefer to use BPI 🏧 because they give a better exchange rate.
Airport pick-up is not necessary.
There's an awesome & beautiful pedestrian bridge from the airport over the main Highway to a main street where there are hotels (Palm Hotel) a grocery store, a pharmacy, a beautiful Mall everything you need all within 6 blocks from the Palm Hotel which is a decent hotel.
For a foreigner married to a Filipina who wants to retire to the Philippines, it would be very advantageous because your pension (US dollars) for instance times 55 pesos certainly would go a long way.
that depends if you have a house (no mortgage) to live in; relatives not living in your house, safe place (not all places in the PHL) is safe my fren...
YES VPN sometimes are not allowed due to anti virus or strong firewall protocols. If self protection isn't needed, just go back to local ISP to make secure connection locally.
If my only source of income were a rental property, I would never consider selling it, unless it's a multi million dollar property, and if I had a secure investment vehicle that would replace my rental profits, while adding to the principle
Stinky sink due to empty P-traps. The plumbing system needs to be vented. When you flush the toilet the water creates a powerful vacuum that sucks the water out of the kitchen sink P-trap. A vent pipe needs to be added to the kitchen sink and the toilet with an inexpensive vent that opens and allows air in when the water is flushed preventing a vacuum throughout the pipes.
You can’t avoid the grease trap in the Philippines. It’s built- in in every condo. Housekeeping will clean it for you for a small fee.
Thank you po Grandpa Vlogger for all the knowledge you have shared to us. God bless!
I was watching 'Philippines Dreams' expat with his family. He have a video about how to call from/to Philippines -google voice something..
Dan, just like you I do not use travel agents for my international flights. BUT I recommend that you avail of travel agents for your domestic flights to other parts of the country. The reason is that domestic flights are eligible for senior discounts. When you buy your ticket online, the senior discount cannot be applied. But the travel agent can apply the discount for you since you can show them your senior ID. When we went to Boracay, I found the cheapest fare on Air Asia. I then asked the travel agent if they could match the online price. They matched the online price and then I showed them my Quezon City Senior ID. My final ticket price was the online price minus 20% senior discount and a waiver of the 12% VAT (part of senior citizen privileges).
Thank you for the tip. That is helpful!
same . When I travel only domestic its cheaper for travel agents.
International flights too??? What travel agents company you use??? Thanks
@@marianeil6630 No, senior discounts only apply to domestic flights. Any travel agent that you can find in the mall can apply the senior discount for you. Find the best online ticket price first and then ask the travel agent to match it.
good job for availing discount for seniors...why you want to go to Boracay being a senior...
I am leaving Canada with Eva Air. Yes, will be in the Philippines for 9 months. Coming back next year...
That person said they just got their Phillipine passport, they can open an account online with Union Bank Philippines. The downside is they'll need a local number. Thanks for sharing this
Correct. The reason is for OTP purposes, among other reasons.
@@Western-3rdSt. once your device has been added and verified, your OTP will show up on your device automatically. Now this is only on your mobile phone. Web base still sends the OTP to the number on file
There is a Philippine bank located in Honolulu Hawaii
Yeah, and one in Guam
bottom line there is no perfect place! the best place is where you are happiest most even without the comforts. besides you really dont need to stay in one place lang. if you can afford it, travel, see places. unless you try and experience it yourself, you will never know. so immerse , feel, see , taste and smell each place. be local!
Regrets later...
Yes, that's what you have to do.
Good information, thanks for the post!
Get a senior citizen ID one you arrived in the Philippines. But use a Philippine address.
Hey Aussie here, been living in Phils for 8 years. Tito answered most of your questions , but if you have any more let me know . With regard to keeping an Aussie mobile number, telstra or other carriers have pre paid long life plans for around $60 per year to keep your number active and receive calls and txt messages at no cost .
Don’t trust anyone ,be alert on anything you do ,if you have relatives ,try to communicate to them ,at least there’s someone besides ,your desicion moving here,
Of course they will say all the negative just not to cut those balikbayan boxes and$$$
Australia is so close to the Philippines in comparison to the USA, I think the person should be willing to go back if necessary to make the move easier. Just FYI, the balikbayan box cost at my local Filipino Asian store to the Philippines is $200, I guess because I am in Arkansas with no big city or the coasts. I bought a one way ticket to Davao, and will get a throw away ticket because I don't know how long I will stay or when I fly back to the USA I might take a detour. My biggest problem is getting documents Apostilled for my retirement visa, some states are easy, mine is refusing to do it, yet I have seen others vloggers get the same documents approved in Arkansas. That is one problem I didn't expect to happen and since I already have my tickets, hotels and AirBnB booked I am going with our without documents for a retirement visa.
There are agents here in the Philippines who can help you for free if you're going for an SRRV. They get paid from the PRA, so no charge for the agent. These agents as well can get things appostilled quicker than you. They even know which ones say they need appostilled but really don't. Getting documents appostilled while living in PH can be a real headache, and that's why many use an agent. Good luck
Grandpa thank you for your advice. I'm a long time subscriber. I'm finally going home after 40+ years. I'm single female senior citizen, though still healthy. I'm scouting retiring in Philippines. I have relatives in Philippines but have not bonded with them, I've not met them in person so it's like I'm a stranger in a strange land. My question is how did you bring cash on your trip to PI?
I just brought some small cash with me, but my main expenses were funded from my bank account in the Philippines that I setup in 2016 or 2017 when I bought my condo. Also, use of credit cards whenever I can, but don't rely on it on online orders. Credit card is okay to use on large establishments and restaurants.
Thanks Grandpa. Another great video and lots of questions answered. The individual had lots of great questions and you were able to sort through them really well. No question that it is a HUGE step moving from one county to another. Lots of things to buy and do upon arrival. I hope it works for the person that sent the questions.....thanks again!
very informative vlog, thank you for sharing.
That austrailian who will use his house rent to support him in the Philippines is really risking everything. Rental of a property is never guaranteed as people die, get sick and move, house burns down, people lose their job and can't pay, etc. Therefore, it is a very bad choice for stable income. If he wants an SRRV down the road, I'm not sure that type of income could be used to qualify.
80% rent a property in Australia are safe , renters dont want to lose 4 weeks bond and you can set the condition what type of peole can rent your property. The problem is his rental income not enough to support his lifestyle with no friends, family or anyone else in a new country. In Manila , it cost everything the same like Australia in the supermarket , department stores, restaurant. He and Australian enjoy life everything so cheap in AUstralia: free medicare, cheap medicine ( a few dollars for each pack of medicine for people with no job and retires), cheap foods, cheap cloths etc. he watching youtube, and people telling him it cheap to live in the Philipine.
This advice will be useful for us we are planning to retire this year in the Phil. But need to get rid of a lot of things and the home👌thank you🥰
I agree. To the Salvation Army they go.
Test the condition for about a month, let you decide if the PHL is the place for you to retire. Not everything you see on TV news is perfect for everyone... no regrets later.
hey grandpa just like you in just came back after 3 years not seeing my condo. the p-trap and toilet did not dry up as i was expecting. i guess cuz it is humid hot in PI not dry hot. condo was dusty with a few dead roaches. lol. took a day to wipe things down. my condo offers a cleaning service but did not use. you might want to inquire with your condo admin. also, SIM registration in done when u buy the SIM card. they will take your pic and blink your eyes a few times. also if you need a ladder ask your maintenance to borrow one. Philippines Airlines is what you have said. Didnt care. the stewardess were nice and pilot landed safetly plus you are sorrounddd by your peeps
it would be nice if there was an online to do list of things to do when moving to the PH with links to relevant resources( and not a million videos on youtube)
My advice, think not twice, think 100x before deciding to retire in the PHL. You'll be happy later, no regrets.
You do not need to get a SIM inside the airport if you want to get a a Grab. Better to get a SIM outside later at your convenience and at probably better pricing. When you exit the terminal you will see a green Grab booth. The attendant will get you a Grab vehicle using their phone. Unlike North American Uber where you pay thru the app, with Grab you can pay the driver the pre-arranged and agreed upon amount at the end of the ride. I've had hotel front desk employees call me a Grab on their personal mobiles.
You can pay grab by registering your credit card. Thereafter, everytime you use grab, it get's charged to your credit card on file. Just like Uber or Lyft!
@@vloggergrandpa2707 I understand that. But to download the Grab app you must have a local Philippine number which is why you want to get a SIM in the airport. I'm just saying that instead of doing that, just use the Grab booth outside the terminal to get a Grab car and get the SIM later at your convenience.
@@lesterw8938 Oh, I see. Thanks for the tip.
Great advice, had same experience few years ago, it is safe with GRAB.
😎👍🇵🇭🤿❤️good information!
Many people may not know that you can wire transfer for free, through your brokerage account in USA for unlimited amount. You only pay your local bank in Philippines. I have done this last week and I only paid five dollars for sending money through local bank in Philippines
What is a brokerage account? Thanks for the tip and God bless!
Brokerage account is an account used for buying and selling stocks, bonds, mutual funds , and other securities. Brokerage companies are Schwab, Fidelity, Vanguard , etc. ask them if they have free wire transfer before opening a brokerage account
Thanks for the reply. We have Fidelity for my husband's pension but most likely he'll take a lump sum when he retires.
@@Bellajane127 you can open a separate individual brokerage account with fidelity and you can use it to deposit money that you can wire transfer for free.
Better u visit a fidelity branch to open brokerage account and also fill up a fidelity wire transfer authorization form with bank details of your receiver for international wire transfers. They both can be done in one visit to the branch. You need the swift code of the Philippines bank and the account details.
Good Advice 👍
Thanks for sharing your views Vlogger Granda! I really enjoy watching your channel. I want to comment on the telephone issue. Maybe creating a google voice account can help. Google voice will assign a (or you can even pick your own) phone number. Once you have it, you are free to go anywhere in the world and use that number. Since I am based in the US, I always use this whenever I visit the Philippines so I can call the US (or receive a call) as if I am here.
Will you please elaborate more on how to create this Google voice account. Planning to go to the Philippines soon and your suggestion sounds good. Thanks
That google voice will not work for 2FA that are used for authentication of credit card, banking, brokerage, and others. They even know if you are using vpn to cover your true location
@@adamapple337 you don't need VPN to use Google Voice outside the US.
I have both my sim card registered by my sister using my postal id with her.
Hwy grandpa is your condo at the grove i think we’re neighbors
Most banks can now detect an in coming call as to whether it is using a VPN... and they don't trust that, so they filter out these calls. At least that is how it goes with my banks in Canada.
So far I have not encountered that at my banks. I had problem accessing Amazon's Prime Video and Netflix without VPN, but when I turn on my VPN it worked very well.
Granpa, can I get an advice...I'm 55 will I have enough to go home like 100K.. that's all I have.. i'm ofw in U.S. .. can I build a modern small house and use the rest to build an apartment like 4 to 5 doors for xtra income to live on?
Yes and no. It all depends on your life style. You have to do your own personal assessment since that is a very dependent on YOU.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 I'd just like to keep it simple... I've watched other vloggers that other ofw has build house for reasonable price house and they are all nice for 13k dollars those have 3 to 4 bedrooms..I guess depends size house and what province... All I need just a 2 or 1 bedroom half size bedroom is all I need ....like I said apartment rental...maybe depends on budget..I may live in one the apartment too 🤣 there fore the Yes answer meant it can happen... the No part is the lifestyle... I lived enough of the highlights lifestyle here in U.S... I just miss back home!
You must be a good/big dreamer my fren...
You can do it!!!
Stay humble and check if you can make any side hustle (additional income) in the Phils.🎉🎉🎉
@@AL-vw7kxas grandpa said, it will depend on your lifestyle. If you live in the province & buy land in the province, then your cost of living will be lower.
If you plan to build apartments, try building just 2 or 4 first (2 up, 2 down). 1 small apartment (20 to 25 sqm) will now cost you ~500k to 600k pesos to build, if it's up to standard. (If you want to decrease costs, you can build substandard but good luck in getting permits and in maintenance costs!) If you plan to build a house/ apartments, I suggest to watch vlogs by Ingeniero TV and Architect Ed. It's also better if you're there to supervise the build.
You could also construct a mixed use building. Example, you live on the 1st floor & you rent out apartments on the 2nd floor. Or you can make a triplex/ quadruplex building. One unit could be a 2-storey townhouse (for yourself), the other units could be 1-storey apartments for rent. The advantage in constructing a mixed use building is that you'll just spend/do the paperwork for 1 building permit, as well as hiring the architect, engineers, etc. Good luck.
Sir, Am Dual Pilipino US Citizen and turning 65, as retiree what shall I do when it comes to moving back to the Philippines do I still retain my Medicare Insurance plan B as plan A is automatic, and still buy my Medicare advantage , what the right things to do please share me your wisdom and thoughts with regards to these..thank You..
There is a lot to explain here. It's not an easy decision. And that is why I created a vlog that specifically address this question. Please check my Channel. Thank you.
Medicare Supplement Plan N, will cover emergency medical expense, upon presenting payments receipts to your insurance carrier. Think over several times before deciding to relocate back to the PHL.
think twice. youre about to let go life of convenience. consider the safety, the time and effort wasted from inefficencies and ineffectiveness of others. if aus is 20 years in advance, baka mabuwiset k lng dahil ang bagal ng buhay sa Pinas or baka mabuwiset sila sa yo bcoz you see the difference. vacation, yes! but not a permanent stay!
if you're retired ,you can slow down anyway so you don't need the fast phased life.
@@marites4 Bingo ka dyan !!!
@@jayvirtusio1081 yeah, sanitation and cleanliness can be improved, same with healthcare, but in all places there are pros and cons. What I love are the tropical surroundings, the lush and green places , tropical fresh fruits and vegies , not frozen because of high turnover, cheap airfare for interisland travel or other nearby Asian countries. Polite and respectful service workers (for the most part) .
@@marites4 Tagal ko sa america 35 years at lahat ng family ko dyan.Sabi ko nga lahat automatic remote control (DIY)D2 pinas voice control paki turn on mo ang TV at paki punasan mo na din ang alikabok😂 you like that huh ?That's the truth!
35yrs kana pala sa america so di kana updated sa pilipinas 🤣
I have the same issues wanting to move this year yet lots of paperwork’s and getting rid of properties
I feel your pain!
This individual needs to reorganize his priorities, being young and no income, alone (very vulnerable by lonely love fans club), no established location to stay, big problem...
Grandpa, I’m on social security every month. I’m planning to move to the Philippines permanently. My question is; if I incur a problem with the SSA , is their an SSA office at the U.S. embassy in Manila that I can go to? If there is, can I resolve any problem as if I’m talking to the SSA office here in the U.S.? Thank you. You are always helpful.God bless you and your family.
My understanding is that there is SSA office at the U.S. Embassy where you can resolve issues and do not have to be in the U.S.
Hay grandpa I purchased the magic jack but haven’t activated it yet it says it’s free calling to Canada and Mexico. It said I need to purchase minutes for other countries .. I’ll be using it in the Philippines you mentioned you paid 45 dollars same as I paid ?
I no longer have a Magicjack but when I did I bought the 5 year plan for about $100 = $20 a year. They only have the 3 year plan now for $109 so about $34 a year. I only used it to call Canada and the US from anywhere in the world. I never used it to call other countries including Philippines so never paid anything extra.
Vlogger Granpa, question po. My mother wants to move permanently to Manila. She's a greencard holder, not a US citizen yet. She's retired and receiving SS pension due to work here. Can she still get that pension while living in the Philippines and no longer wants to come back here in the US?
My Filipina wife works with a lot of green card holders, especially Latinos.
Those people tell my wife they will lose a percentage of their social security benefits, unless they're American, or Dual, citizens...
@@tlc4417 Yes, you should be able to collect in the Philippines. Those whose benefit are affected probably are also receiving benefits from Philippines' Social Security Administration.
Lots of expats/retired veterans lives in the Phils and they get there pensions 100%. There pensions are deposited in US banks
Can you withdraw money in the Philippines from a US Bank?
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Yes, they can collect SS in Pinas, but I'm told non citizens take a cut in pay...
Of course, if SSA has no idea you're permanently relocated, then the issue of one's citizenship would likely not come up .
Hi Dan, you mentioned at 13:50 that you would be in PH before the end of Feb. Are you indeed already here in PH?
Yes, I am. No recent posting yet because I'm struggling with getting high speed Internet.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Welcome to the Philippines and inefficient internet service. The best option for high speed internet service in PH is fiber from PLDT or Globe. Problem is many earlier condos have not been provisioned with fiber. The newer condos are now being built with fiber in mind. If your condo unit has not been provisioned with fiber, your other option is cellullar WiFi equipment like Globe-at-Home ( PHP799 for the box) and you can just buy load for it. But internet speed is often marginal, depending on time of day.
@@92646snake i have the box o bought years ago and o just buy a load. As you said, the challenge is that it is very slow. I'm trying to get a home internet right now.
I just left Philippines and stayed in an Airbnb condo at rhe Grass Residence.
The wifi they used was Sky Cable. It was fast.
Thank you for the tip. I just called Sky Csble and they have the same plan. You can only suspend for 3 months. Just like Globe. I have a feeling that everyone has the same rocket!
Hi grandpa i live here in Daly City California planning to go back to the Philippines where i can buy the magic jack. Can i buy that in T mobile i using t mobile phone. Thanks
You can Google magic jack an order it online.
Grandpa, how does magicjack works po, im interested. Thank you po
If you have a smart phone, MagicApp is better. You can just use your smart phone without having to use a conventional dial phone.. With Magic Jack, you need a conventional phone. You plug in the phone to your computer after you have logged into Magic Jack and use as a normal land line phone.
The call is not via a hardwired landline. Instead, it is connected to your Internet modem and calls are channeled through the Internet. Thus, if you don't have Internet service, it will not work. It also works on your smart phone and the Internet service need not be yours. Any unprotected service will do it.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 Hey Grandpa, I was just referencing a friend of mine that had an older Magic jack device that hooked directly into his computer on one end and with a phone line output on the other end. he would then use a regular land line phone to make calls....he bought it years ago...so I am sure they have different ways of doing it now.
@@egovorch Even if your friend has the first Magic Jack device from years ago he can load the MJ app on his smartphone and then make and receive Magic Jack calls from his cellphone. This extra service will not cost him a penny.
@@lesterw8938 he uses a old flip phone….not a smart phone….
Grandpa please let me know if you were able to change your kitchen grease trap to waste disposal. Where you bought it and how much it cost you. Thanks
I saw a garbage disposer at Home Depot in Ortigas. Can't remember how much it was. We'll see if I can get one installed.
Every condo unit is built with one. It’s required by law. I believe you’re not allowed to remove it. Ask your building admin about this issue, I suggest.
my biggest concern Paps is my social security check. i want to receive my SSS check in the phil. i still dont know what to do
This was discussed in another vlog in my channel.
Have your Sea Treas check deposited to Vanguard Money market Fund. Withdraw monthly sked to be transfered to your local bank in the PHL, (BPI suggested).
I want to retired in the Phil and I’m a US citizen How do I get a driver license in the Phil.
Go around first and see if you can drive in the Philippines 😂😂
Super crazy roads.
Just go to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and inquire inside not by the fixers outside go early there might be a long line.
@@mfrancisco4242 good advice. Everytime I go back to Manila ,my attempts to drive prove futile .It is different now with my advanced age compared when I was younger , besides too many motorbikes on the road now .
About the Bank account, I went to BDO and Metrobank, they will not open a bank account for me until I live 1 year in the Philippines. I arrived Nov 3rd 2022 so until November 2023 I can't open an account. even with ACR and driver license already issued.
Go to BPI, they are more knowledgeable about opening savings bank account to foreigners. U need to get a TIN, for filing income tax return...ID or passport, foreign bank account (where your funds coming from)...
A new subscriber here. I am enjoying all the info you are presenting. I was just wondering.....Do you know anything about General Santos City??? Is there a large expat community there? Is it a good place for a U.S citizen to retire to? Is it safe for foreigners? Thank you for all the info.
@@laserbeam0029 I'm not familiar with General Santos. However, I heard that there are lots of expats in Dumaguete and people love it there.
My fren, Gen San is not safe for foreigners, since it is the farthest down south of the country, with still existing conflict with muslim groups (MNLF,MILF,Abu Sayaff) NPA, local gangs, I'm from the PH, better believe me...
big no. phils is a very stressful country.
Good day sir, is swab test still be asked when traveling to the Philippines? or if completed the 2 vaccines and boosters, thanks
Grandpa, I'm here in Philippines and getting my monthly SS Benefit in one of the Banks here. This is the only income I have since the year I retired in 2011.and I belong to the Low Income Bracket Category. My question is regarding filing an Income Tax Return. My last Income Tax Return Filing was 2013 when I was still in California. When I did that, the lady who helped me in one of the Senior Places there advised me that since I belonged to Low Income Bracket Category and doesn't have any other income aside from this, she said it doesn't matter if I will not file my Income Tax anymore in the future provided my income category remains the same. Everything is still the same. Now, I want to know your opinion about this 'cause since 2014, I stopped filing my Income Tax Return. Am I still doing right? Hope to hear from you soon and please let me know the current figure for Low Income Category. Thank you so much and God bless you and your family always.
That is still correct. If your income is low and below the income threshold, and it most likely is if SS is all you are receiving, then no tax return need to be filed.
hi Vlogger Grandpa, I've been following your channel for quite a while now. I'm building a Megaworld Condo in Iloilo and the expected turn over would be sometime this year after almost 5 years now. Question: Is it true that your condo will deteriorate if you leave it vacant for a while. I see you have a condo in Manila and nobody is using it while you are here. I also notice you are not renting / Air BnB it. Can you give me a good advise what should I do with it? I dont plan to retire yet, maybe 3 more years so I need your expert opinion. Salamat po.
I will visit my condo shortly after being left vacant for three years. I'll let you know what condition it is in. Just be aware of headaches involved in renting. You will be very luck to get a good tenant who will take good care of your condo. It is a problem renting when you are there to manage it; it's even more of a headache when you are overseas. Again, if you are lucky to get a real good tenant, then it will be great!
Think 100x before deciding to buy a condo unit, if you will only use it for your short vacation trips. the expense of maintenance, insurance, HOA, etc. will drain your pocket...
Vlogger Grandpa , hello po thanks for all the knowledge, God bless po .
Hi, @vlogger grandpa! Can you please discuss the difference between spousal benefits and survivor benefts from social security? Thank you po.
Here's a link: blog.massmutual.com/post/social-security-spousal-survivor-benefits
Hi I'm planning to retired in the Philippines too with my filipina wife in zamboanga del sur is it a good place to live and retired.
My wife is from Zamboanga, but she prefers to live in Manila, and to just periodically visit Zamboanga.
I live in Connecticut not to far from Pennsylvania I've been many times to manila Philippines.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 we are going to the Philippines in March.
@@JulioTorres-nc3kb Enjoy your stay!
Healthcare
Anywhere you go if it's your time, it's your time even with the most perfect healthcare in the world.
Lolo, is it better to get SS at 62 or 67. I retired 2 years ago at age 59 . Now , I will be 62 in May . Am I going to lose a lot if I retire at 62. I need your help. Thanks Lolo.
62 is best to enjoy. I never regretted it. You need an emergency fund.
Practical and full-packed information in one episode. Thank you and more power.
take it at 62 and never look back, the difference in money is not worth waiting.
You need a minimum of 10 working years in the US (40hrs/week) to get at least the minimum SSa benefits. You must be bored or you hate your job, your boss or co-workers, that's why you are thinking of retiring early. Why not get another or move to another job, where you get more satisfaction/recognition of what you do. there is o much unlimited choices, move on my fren.
Hello Grandpa! I am moving to the Philippines in April. I am required to pay Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments to the IRS. Can you give me an effective way to make these payments from the Philippines. Thank You, Sir!
Whether you are required to make estimated payments in US have nothing to do with being in the Philippines. You have to determine your taxes based on your WORLDWIDE income, then arrange to pay tax online. Here is the link: www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account
Thanks for the link Grandpa!
Good day Po, ask ko Po , ano pong requirements Ng foreigner na papales para Dito sa pinas pakasal. Slmt po.
Enter as a tourist, get married, then apply for the appropriate visa.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 cno po mag apply Yong foreigner poba? At saan Po mg apply Ng appropriate visa? Slmt po.
@@vloggergrandpa2707 ano Po mga requirements Ng appropriate visa. Slmt po
While half of the Philippine population wants to retire in the USA for an American dream🤣
Before Covid 19, Philipine a perfect country for retirement . Now the altitude of society has change, if you are tourist or expat buy something in the supermarket or Mcdonald , KFC small meal , they judge you are a poor tourist or expat, you dont get that in Sydney. He from Sydney, an international city, got used to all kind of foods and supermarket offers discount product every weeks even cheaper then Philipine. You cant really find that in Manila. He going to realise it cost more expensive to live in Philipine than Sydney very soon and less fun . he eating lot of cheap vegetables in Sydney, Philipine not for vegetarian and it not good for old people and their health
Nothing about there not going there no finance a poor cuntry no way