
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do you typically work with?
We work with individuals, couples, retirees, and self-employed professionals. Many of our clients are creatives, business owners, or people approaching retirement who want guidance on how to make the most of what they’ve built.
Do I need a certain amount of money to work with you?
No. Unlike many firms, we don’t have account minimums. Whether you’re just getting started, building wealth, or already retired, we’ll meet you where you are plan the next steps.
What does your financial planning process look like?
It starts with a conversation about your life including your goals, challenges, and values surrounding money. There is no “one size fits all” approach to planning as everyone’s situation is unique. We create a personalized plan that covers saving, investing, retirement, taxes, and protection strategies. We’ll review it together, make adjustments, and update your plan regularly as your life evolves.
What makes you different from other financial advisors?
We believe financial planning should be personal and practical and not a sales pitch. As a fiduciary, your best interests are put first. Being fee-based means we can be compensated through fees for planning and investment management and sometimes through commissions on insurance products if those are a good fit for you. We’ll always be upfront and transparent about costs.
When should I take Social Security?
The decision to take Social Security early, at full retirement age, or later can have a huge impact on your lifetime benefits. We’ll analyze your options based on your health, family history, and overall financial picture, so you can make the most of this important benefit.
What’s the best way to create income once I retire?
When you stop receiving a paycheck, your savings need to become your “paycheck.” We’ll design a tax-smart income plan using a mix of Social Security, retirement accounts, investments, and, if appropriate, insurance products, so you have steady income that lasts as long as you do.
How do I make sure I don’t run out of money in retirement?
Longevity is one of the biggest financial risks. Through careful planning, we will look at your spending, investments, and protection strategies to make sure your money is built to last so you can enjoy retirement instead of worrying about it.
Do I really need life and disability insurance?
If others rely on your income whether it’s your spouse, kids, or business partners, life and disability insurance can be critical. We will determine the right type and amount of coverage, so you’re protected without overpaying. Later, as you transition into retirement, we’ll review what insurance you still need and what you can drop.
How much should I be saving while I’m still working?
A good rule of thumb is to save at least 15-20% of your income, but everyone’s situation is different. We will figure out how much you personally should be setting aside, where to save (401(k), IRA, Roth, etc.), and how to balance saving for retirement with other goals like college or buying a home.