Maintaining US State Residency and Domicile While Living at Network School

Even while living at Network School, your US state of domicile determines which state taxes you owe, where you vote, which driver's license you hold, and where you can access government services. Some states (California, New York) aggressively pursue tax claims on former residents, while others (Texas, Florida, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nevada) have no state income tax at all. Before leaving for NS, establishing domicile in a no-income-tax state can save thousands of dollars annually. This is perfectly legal and widely practiced among digital nomads, but requires deliberate steps to document the change.

The most popular choices are Florida, Texas, and South Dakota. To establish domicile, you need a physical address (virtual mailbox services like Traveling Mailbox or Earth Class Mail work), a state driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration (if applicable), and bank accounts listing the new address. South Dakota is often easiest because it requires the least physical presence — you just need to spend one night in the state and sign an affidavit of domicile. Florida requires a Declaration of Domicile filed with the county recorder. Complete these steps before leaving for NS to create a clear timeline.

A virtual mailbox service is essential for maintaining your US address while abroad. Services like Traveling Mailbox, Anytime Mailbox, or iPostal1 receive your physical mail, scan it, and let you view it online. They can also forward packages. Use this address for your bank accounts, credit cards, driver's license, voter registration, and IRS correspondence. Most services cost $10 to $30 per month and include a real street address, not a PO Box. This is important because some institutions reject PO Boxes. Set up automatic forwarding for any mail that arrives at your old address before departing.

Keep at least two US bank accounts active and funded. Set up online banking and mobile check deposit before leaving. Ensure your credit cards have no foreign transaction fees — the Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture, and most American Express cards work globally without fees. Renew your driver's license before it expires. Some states allow online renewal while others require in-person visits. File a US Postal Service change of address form to your virtual mailbox. Keep a list of every account tied to your US address and update them all before departure. Many NS members schedule an annual trip home to handle any in-person requirements.