be well & heal
How I Help - and Why I Get It
Hi, I’m Courtney Mallow — a financial wellness coach, tax preparer, humanitarian and former international development implementing partner.
I spent more than 15 years in the international development and humanitarian space, proudly serving all over the world, including conflict zones, such as Afghanistan & Iraq. When I was suddenly furloughed due to the dismantling of USAID, it shook my identity and stability — emotionally, professionally, and financially.
That experience is why I now help other global professionals like you find clarity in uncertain times.
Whether you're staying in the field, transitioning to something new, or picking up contract work, I offer grounded, compassionate financial guidance tailored to our new world.
Working together with my Syrian colleagues in Iraq on humanitarian projects
Services Tailored for Aid Workers, FSOs & IPs
✅ Tax support for transition years (severance, unemployment, mixed income, FEIE)
✅ State residency guidance (especially for those with frequent moves or no fixed base)
✅ Budgeting & cash flow help while between jobs or starting something new
✅ Support for launching freelance or consulting work after layoffs
✅ Mindful money coaching to rebuild confidence, clarity, and peace of mind
*We offer sliding scale rates to support those experiencing financial hardship, especially individuals affected by recent mass layoffs or career transitions. If our rates feel out of reach for you right now, please contact us at info@bewellfinance.org. We have a limited number of reduced-rate sessions available each month. No proof required, just honesty and mutual respect.
You're Not Alone
The layoffs weren’t just about jobs — they affected our purpose, our security, and our community.
This page is here to help you feel seen, supported, and financially prepared to move forward.
10 Financial Steps for Emergency or Uncertain Times
Learn the 10 Financial Steps
Financial and Emotional Resilience Resource Guide
In February 2025, we hosted two webinars designed for recently furloughed/laid of aid workers and created valuable tools & insights.
Explore the accompanying Resource Guide
Still Working Abroad?
Check out our Expats & Digital Nomads page for FEIE, FBAR, and cross-border tax guidance.
Want to talk it through?
Upcoming Group Sessions
📣 Next Cohort Begins July 18
Financial First Aid: 4 Weeks to Stability
Join our next group coaching session, starting July 18! This course is specifically designed for those impacted by recent mass layoffs. Whether you're feeling blindsided, burned out, or just uncertain about what’s next, Financial First Aid helps you take back control of your finances—without shame, guilt, or overwhelm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) if I was laid off mid-year?
Maybe. If you meet either the Bona Fide Residence Test or the Physical Presence Test, you may still qualify for a partial exclusion based on the time you were working abroad. We can help assess your situation.
2. I received severance or unused leave payout — is that taxable?
Yes. Severance and other end-of-employment payouts are typically considered U.S.-sourced income and do not qualify for FEIE, even if you're abroad. But there are still ways to reduce your tax burden.
3. I don’t have a “tax home” anymore — does that disqualify me from exclusions?
Not necessarily. The tax home rule is complex, especially in transition years. We'll look at your full situation (housing, intention to return, employment plans) to determine the best approach.
4. I’m thinking about freelancing or consulting — where do I start financially?
We can help you choose a business structure, track income, estimate taxes, and stay compliant from day one.
5. I moved back to the U.S. — can you still help me?
Absolutely. Whether you’re abroad or back home, we help with tax filing, budgeting, and setting up your next chapter financially — including side hustles or transitioning to a new career.
6. What if I worked for multiple contracts or funders in one year?
That’s common in this sector. We can help you track income sources, apply exclusions properly, and reduce the risk of IRS red flags.
7. Can I write off my job search or career transition expenses?
Some, yes — but only under certain conditions. We can review your situation to identify eligible deductions.
CONTACT US
Tel. 407-305-0823
info@bewellfinance.org
1317 Edgewater Dr #6378
Orlando, FL 32804
© 2025 Be Well & Co. Financial Consulting,
a division of Be Well & Heal LLC