How MaCara Santiago Bounced Back & Started Her First Business After Getting Laid Off From A Company She Was With For 8 Years.

Written By: GoalSetters International

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Absolutely, the biggest challenge and roadblock was my mindset. Being the 1st college graduate and business owner in my family put a lot of pressure on me.  I grew up in poverty, been in foster care, and a teen mom. So I ended up dealt with a lot of FEARS.

Macara SAntiago

Founder:  Legacy Accounting Partners

Can you tell us what type of business you run and how long you've been operating this business? 

I have a boutique accounting firm that specializes in business organization, tax planning and preparation, and business development for women owned brands that are expats, digital nomads, and aspiring global entrepreneurs.


I have been in operation for a little under a year.



Can you share with us some details about how you got started in the Accounting Industry?

I actually kind of fell into the industry. My career background is in nonprofit management. I was laid off after being with the organization for 8 years. The layoff prompted me to start my first business - a professional organizing company. During this time, I also taught financial literacy in marginalized and disenfranchised communities. That is when I was approached by an accounting firm wanting to collaborate with me to set up systems with their business and corporate tax clients. I learned so much about the industry and when I went back to school I decided to get  my degree in accounting with an emphasis in International taxation.


If you've had some challenges and roadblocks along the way, Can you share with us what some of those challenges have been in regards to starting or running this business and how you overcame them?

Absolutely, the biggest challenge and roadblock was my mindset. Being the 1st college graduate and business owner in my family put a lot of pressure on me.  I grew up in poverty, been in foster care, and a teen mom. So I ended up dealt with a lot of FEARS. The fear of inadequacy, fear of not knowing enough, the fear of failure, the fear of being judged, the fear of rejection, the fear of uncertainty, and the fear of change. In which manifested in perfectionism and overachievement in some areas of my life. And that truly burnt me out. 


So after my mom passed away last year I decided to seek therapy, in which I dealt a lot with those fears and where they stemmed from. During my therapy sessions I discovered the value that I have and give to others. To love and appreciate myself more and to give myself grace.


What do you love about your lifestyle now as an entrepreneur?

Giving back and helping those who seek my knowledge and advice. Seeing the growth with my clients. The ability to travel in my business and be nomadic. And self discovery, realizing what works for me, my limitations, what I like and don’t like, and how I want to continue to build my business and my brand. 


Let's talk about the services you offer, who do you help, and how do you help?

My firm offers accounting + bookkeeping, tax, and advisory services. So I'm in the business of assisting US expats, digital nomads, and inspiring global entrepreneurs to get strategic about their business finances while staying compliant abroad and according to the US tax code. My main objective is to help women owned brands know their numbers so they can grow their profits through financial record keeping, reporting, and strategy. 


To break that down. I will:

1. Help you get clear on your finances and really know your numbers.

2. Recognize your financial pitfalls.

3. Help you create & maintain a budget.

4. Set up systems to keep you financially organized. And......

5. Consult with you on a strategy to continually grow your business to be profitable and sustainable outside of the US.


Technology and online businesses have opened up lots of opportunities for expat business owners and nomadic entrepreneurs living abroad. What are some of the most common questions you're asked by expat entrepreneurs and taxes? 

Do I have to pay or file taxes since I don’t live in the US anymore?

Can I file jointly with my spouse who isn’t a US citizen or resident?

Do I have to pay taxes in the country that I’m residing in?

So will I be double taxed?

How can I register my business in another country?

Can I do business or work in another country?

I have a remote job, and want to travel. How can I do this?

I got a job outside the US, and pay taxes in the country I live in, I’m good right?

How do I or should I give up my US citizenship to avoid taxes?

Can I claim my child who was born abroad?

Do I have to pay business taxes if I don’t do business in the US?

What countries pay the least taxes?

And what countries are the best to live in?



With all that you've accomplished so far, did setting goals contribute to your success?

Absolutely. I’m constantly setting goals for myself and my business. 


Here at GoalSetters, we like to say " A Goal Without A Plan is Just A Wish", what's your advice on the best way that people can go about accomplishing the goals that they set?

Not only do you set just goals, set SMART goals, and put them in plain sight. So it can be a constant reminder of what you are striving for. Break them down so it doesn’t seem overwhelming. And incorporate those goals using data and metrics. I know it doesn’t sound fun but trust me. Seeing where you are heading can help you make those goals successful and for you to see what's working and what’s not working. And last but not least, have a mentor/coach or accountability partner that’s going to push you while you work towards those goals because it isn’t easy and there will be times when you want to give up or just need some direction.


In closing, for those that may require your services or may need mentorship, how can they connect with you?

You can go to my linktree www.linktr.ee/yourexpatcfo and it will have a link to my website and social media. Or  you can go directly to my website www.legacyap.com

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