About Us

Ely Cole is a licensed U.S. Certified Public Accountant with over 20 years of experience preparing and reviewing U.S. tax returns for individuals, families, and businesses. He holds an MBA from Ben-Gurion University and a B.S. in Accounting and Economics from the University of Maryland.

Ely began his career at Ernst & Young (EY) in New York, where he worked on high-net-worth individual tax returns and complex personal tax matters. After relocating to Israel, he co-founded Cole & Waxman, where his practice has evolved to focus on U.S.–Israel cross-border taxation, with particular expertise in advising olim, expatriates, and dual citizens navigating multi-jurisdictional tax obligations.

His areas of specialization include U.S. personal income tax, international and cross-border planning, real estate taxation, and partnership structures. Today, Ely’s primary focus is leading the firm—overseeing strategy, training and mentoring the professional team, and working closely with clients on complex tax planning and advisory matters to ensure efficient, compliant, and forward-looking outcomes.

Ely believes that excellent tax work requires both technical precision and a strong human element. Family is central to his life and informs the way he advises clients through important financial and personal transitions. He lives in Modiin with his wife and their four children.

David Waxman is an IRS Enrolled Agent and co-founder of Cole & Waxman. He earned a degree in Mathematics from the University of Delaware and brings a strong analytical and systems-oriented approach to tax and financial problem-solving.

After moving to Israel in 1993 and spending several years in the technology sector, David recognized the widespread confusion facing U.S. taxpayers living abroad, particularly dual citizens navigating unfamiliar filing and reporting requirements. In 2003, he founded Cole & Waxman to address this need, laying the foundation for what has grown into a well-established cross-border tax firm.

David continues to work actively with clients, with particular focus on PFIC-related planning, long-term financial considerations for U.S. persons living abroad, and cryptocurrency taxation. In addition to client support, he plays a key role in overseeing firm operations and supporting the professional team.

Outside of work, David is a father of three and an avid endurance athlete. He enjoys running marathons and training at CrossFit.