Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Our Frequently Asked Questions section provides clear, straightforward answers to common financial planning topics to help you make more informed and confident decisions.
Q: Why should I consider working with a financial planner to manage my finances?
A financial planner can help you organize your finances, create a personalized strategy, and make informed decisions based on your goals and risk tolerance. They also provide ongoing guidance and perspective, helping you stay on track and adjust your plan as your life and financial needs change. A good analogy that we like to use is "we, the financial planner, are the quarterback of your financial life."
Q: What is a fiduciary advisor, and why does it matter when choosing financial guidance?
A fiduciary advisor is legally and ethically required to act in your best interest when providing financial advice. This is important because it helps ensure your recommendations are objective, transparent, and focused on your financial goals rather than commissions or incentives.
Q: Why should i work with you and not another firm?
We focus on building long-term relationships grounded in education, transparency, and personalized retirement planning strategies tailored to your unique goals. Our commitment is to provide ongoing guidance and clear communication so you always feel informed and confident in your financial decisions. We strive to go above and beyond traditional service standards by continuously improving and expanding what we offer each year. Above all, we are dedicated to serving our neighbors and helping our community thrive.
Q: What certifications should my financial planner have?
There are several financial planning certifications, with the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation being one of the most widely recognized. A CFP® professional has demonstrated knowledge and experience across key areas of financial planning, including retirement planning, investment management, tax planning, estate planning, and risk management.
Q: How are you paid?
We are compensated in a variety of ways depending on the services you choose, which may include fees for financial planning services, asset-based advisory fees, or commissions on certain insurance or investment products where applicable. We believe in transparency, and we will always review how we are compensated before you make any decisions so you fully understand any costs involved.
Q: What do you specialize in?
Our firm specializes in helping individuals develop sound retirement strategies. If you are retired – or approaching retirement – please take the time to explore our website and the wealth of information we offer.
Q: What are your primary goals?
One of our primary goals is to develop a long-term, trusting relationship with you. We look to accomplish this by placing great importance on your questions and concerns. Your agenda is our agenda.
Q: Where do i sign up for Medicare Part A & Part B?
You can sign up through the Social Security Administration's website or one of their nearby offices.
Q: When do i have to sign up for medicare?
If you are taking Medicare at 65, you can sign up during the Initial Enrollment Period. It lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65, and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65. (Medicare.gov)
Q: Should I start medicare if i am covered by a group health plan through work?
Not necessarily. After your Initial Enrollment Period is over, you may have a chance to sign up for Medicare during a Special Enrollment Period. For example, if you didn't sign up for Part B (or Part A if you have to buy it) when you were first eligible because you have group health plan coverage based on current employment (your own, a spouse's, or a family member's if you have a disability), you can sign up for Part A and/or Part B: (1) Any time you're still covered by the group health plan or (2) During the 8-month period that begins the month after the employment ends or the coverage ends, whichever happens first. (Medicare.gov)