The terminology referring to financial planning is sometimes used interchangeably with general savings or investment advice.  To be clear, the financial plan IS the map.  Before we begin charting our course, we must figure out where we are so we can determine the path that will lead toward success. We will be with you along the way as you transition through life.

Financial planning encompasses all aspects of your life, which includes the relevant topics of:

What does retirement look like for you? Have you even thought about it? Are you wanting to downsize, relax and slow your pace or are you looking forward to having more time to travel and seek new adventures? Once we have a better idea of what you’ve set aside in your nest egg, your Social Security benefits, and how much income you will need, we can put numbers to paper and help determine how to make it happen.

Investment planning is one component of financial planning that maps out how to structure a portfolio. This includes both short and long-term goals. It is important to understand the account architecture, time horizon and risk tolerance before we can decide how much to invest in stocks, bonds, and cash in order to maximize your returns.

Taxes can have a major impact on your financial and investment plans. We work with your CPA/tax preparer to develop a strategy to try to manage your tax liability through tax-efficient investing.  Some considerations are account types, opportunities for harvesting losses or gains, and the investments themselves.

You’ve worked hard to accumulate your nest egg, so it makes sense to protect it. We review and acknowledge events that could potentially throw your plan off course as it relates to health, disability, life, and property. As the saying goes, hope for the best and plan for the worst. We work with your insurance agent(s) to evaluate your current coverage to make sure it is appropriate and adequate.

For families with children, saving for college and higher education expenses usually ranks high on the list of priorities.  Whether the plan is to cover all the expenses or share in some portion of the expense, developing a strategy early on is important while our clients have time on their side. There are several options when considering an education plan including 529 Plans, Coverdell Education Savings Account, and gifting.  We will help navigate the most effective way to finance your children’s or grandchildren’s education

Legacy planning encompasses the transfer of assets to your loved ones or charities both in your lifetime and at your death. It also includes designating who will manage the responsibilities of your estate when you are no longer able to perform your responsibilities due to death or incapacity. We work with you and your attorney to design an effective strategy so your wishes are honored.