Question 1

Which service is best for me - the Checkup or the Comprehensive Plan?

Accepted Answer

If you're looking for quick resolution to a question such as "Can I buy a house?" or "Should I exercise my stock options?" The Checkup is a good fit.   If you're a single person with only a few accounts. The Checkup.   If you're fairly organized with regard to your personal finances. The Checkup.   If you're part of a couple with a lot of accounts and several concerns that may require extended discussion - the Comprehensive Plan is best for you.

Question 2

If I start with the Checkup but want to switch to the Comprehensive Plan is that ok?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I'm very flexible.

Question 3

Do you provide ongoing advice or only a one-time financial plan?

Accepted Answer

Yes I have many clients who regularly meet with me.   After our initial engagement, I'm happy to meet again at your discretion. My hourly rate is $200/hr.

Question 4

Will you tell me which stocks or bonds to buy?

Accepted Answer

I will provide a recommended asset allocation based on your overall financial plan. This will include retirement and non-retirement accounts. I favor ETFs and Index Funds due to their low-cost and tax-efficiency.   I'm not a stock picker and I can't tell you when to buy or sell. But I can help you create a rules based plan that will serve as a guidepost.   If you hold a concentration in stock due to company equity, I may suggest you diversify this position.

Question 5

Will you provide tax advice?

Accepted Answer

No, I'm not a licensed CPA. I will consider your tax rate and liability when I create a financial plan but any tax advice should be discussed with a tax expert. I can provide a referral to a vetted CPA if you need one.

Question 6

What do I need to send you before our meeting?

Accepted Answer

If you book a Financial Checkup, I will ask you to complete a questionnaire that will give me the background information I need to prepare for our meeting so we can make the most of our time together.   If you book a Comprehensive Financial Plan, I will collect most of the background information during our first call.   I don't use screen scraping software or ask you to send me statements, account numbers, or social security numbers so your personal information remains secure.

Question 7

Will you invest my money for me?

Accepted Answer

I'm not an active money manager.   I do not take trading authorization over your accounts. I will provide an asset allocation that you can execute on your own. This is a simple allocation and I'm happy to help if you get stuck but I don't log into your accounts or place trades on your behalf.

Question 8

Are you familiar with pensions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I have many clients who are eligible for pension or currently receiving distributions.

Question 9

Do you sell life insurance or annuities?

Accepted Answer

No, I will recommend coverage based on your needs and I can provide a referral. I do not recommend annuities.