
Frequently Asked Questions
Still exploring your options or have questions about how financial planning works? You’re in the right place.
- 01
While I tend to work most often with independent female executives and professional couples experiencing a life transition, if you're financially responsible, want a well-organized financial life, a coach to hold you accountable and are serious about accomplishing meaningful goals, I could be the financial planner for you.
There's no obligation to schedule an intro call to see if we're a fit and learn more about my financial planning packages. Even if not, I'm happy to refer you to another financial planner who might be.
- 02
Absolutely! I utilize Zoom and other technology that allows me to work with clients throughout the U.S. in a virtual capacity.
- 03
No, there is no cost for our introductory call. I first want to discuss your goals and aspirations to determine if we're the best fit for each other.
- 04
As a fee-only planner, I'm always transparent about what and how I charge, which includes:
Start Your Wealth with Entry-Level Planning
This engagement is for those who are just starting out and want to get a head start on growing their wealth for the long-term. The fee is $1,000 for a three-month engagement, with the option to continue with an ongoing monthly fee.
Grow Your Wealth Through Comprehensive Financial Planning
This engagement is for those in mid-career with more complex financial lives. The minimum annual financial planning fee starts at $4,000, based on your income, assets and other factors like owning investment real estate or a small business, stock compensation, going through a divorce or losing a loved one, etc.
This fee can be paid as a flat fee for financial planning, an assets under management (AUM) fee with investment management, or a combination of both.
Sustain Your Wealth Through Comprehensive Financial Planning and Wealth Management
This engagement is for those who are close to or are in retirement and want income and tax planning, wealth management and ongoing advice to sustain their hard-earned nest egg. I don't receive commissions or kick-backs for investment trades.
Instead, comprehensive financial planning and wealth management is billed an annual assets under management (AUM) fee ranging between 0.50% - 1.25% of account balance, based on account size and investment strategy.
Specific fees are shared during our introductory call together.
- 05
As a fee-only financial planner, I'm compensated directly by my clients for financial advice and ongoing investment management. I don't receive commissions or kickbacks from financial or insurance products, which minimizes conflicts and ensures I'm acting as a fiduciary.
- 06
Yes I do. This means I'm under oath and law to put your best interest first and to act in a transparent manner by providing you with all the relevant facts. I strive to offer advice that's both accurate and thorough. This is the highest legal and ethical standard for financial advisors.
- 07
In a word, no. Whether you lack the time, skill or discipline, I'll motivate you to remain proactive about taking action on your financial plan. It’s easy to put my recommendations on paper and let you walk away, but if someone isn’t in your corner looking out for your financial well-being, it’s easy to get off track.
My approach is based on creating an action plan that's unique to you. Life changes, and so should your plan. That's why I offer ongoing financial planning and/or investment management once our initial engagement is complete.
With that said, if you're just looking for advice on a topic or two, you can engage with me on an hourly basis. I'll share a cost estimate in your intro call.
- 08
It's important to let clients know I'm considered “independent.” That means I'm not required to sell proprietary investment products or a one-size-fits-all approach. I develop a partnership with my clients and share customized advice before offering solutions.
And while I realize that technology solves many money and investment challenges, it can also dehumanize the financial planning process.
Answers aren’t always black and white, and emotions can make it more difficult to achieve financial success.
Learn more about my client-focused services here.
- 09
No, the firm does not hold custody over client assets. We partner with AssetMark Trust as the custodian. They provide secure, reliable and flexible supervision of your investment assets.
Still Have Questions or Ready to Start Your Financial Journey?
Schedule a free, no-pressure call to learn more about Life Story Financial's fee-only financial planning and investment management packages.
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