LWP's 25th Anniversary

Financial Planning FAQs

Just as we aim to give clear, straight-forward answers to our clients, we want to do the same for those who are considering a relationship with Laurel Wealth Planning. Below are questions we frequently get from potential clients. If you have a question we didn’t answer, leave it in the box below!

Who we are

What is a “full-service, fee-only” firm?
“Full-service” means we offer comprehensive financial planning, not just investment management. We consider all your investments, even those not with us, in your plan. We counsel you on risks and opportunities. We provide guidance on matters such as insurance, tax, estate planning, and charitable giving.

“Fee-only” means we are paid only through client fees, not through commissions made by selling financial products to clients. This mitigates conflicts of interest that can arise when advisors receive commissions. Our only obligation is to you.

How are you compensated?
As a fee-only firm, our compensation comes solely from you, based on the assets we manage on your behalf. Fees are paid quarterly and cover all our services.
What does it mean to be an independent firm?

An independent financial advisor is not tied to the proprietary products of one investment company. This gives us the freedom and ability to select investment products and services that are best for you.

Are you a fiduciary?

Yes. As a fiduciary, we are legally bound to work in your best interest at all times. We are a trusted advisor, thoughtful partner, and responsible steward of your assets. We strive to ensure all investment advice is accurate, and we aim to avoid conflicts of interest.

What credentials do you have?

Our team includes members with specialties, certifications, and degrees in taxation, investments, and personal financial planning. Credentials and licenses include:

  • Certified Financial Planner®
  • Certified Public Accountant
  • Master of Business Taxation
  • Personal Financial Specialist

Whom we serve

What types of clients do you specialize in?
While we are happy to work with anyone who feels our style suits them, many of our clients are women with substantial financial resources or couples with a woman as a strong decision-maker. We often help clients navigate life transitions, such as a change in marital status or a transition to retirement and financial independence. We also have many clients who want to use their wealth to leave a meaningful footprint in the world.
Do you have a minimum asset requirement?

Because we help construct multi-faceted plans, we find that clients with $1 million or more in invested assets — or those rapidly accumulating toward that level — benefit the most from our experience. However, we do not have a minimum account size, just a minimum annual fee of $7,500, which is $1,875 a quarter.

How we help

What does a financial plan include?
With you at the center, your financial plan explores your current financial situation and your short- and long-term goals. It then sets a plan for how to get from here to there. This includes:

  • A path to financial independence
  • Plans for future needs such as education and estate planning
  • Risk management
  • Income tax reduction strategies
  • Investment management

We frequently review and revise your plan. We can manage as much or as little of the plan as you want. You can stay as actively involved as you choose to.

What does a financial plan include?
In our relationship with you, we listen for the heart of the matter. Understanding you and your goals is the basis for your personalized plan.

We consider all your investments, calibrate strategies, look for tax reduction opportunities, and counsel you on risks and opportunities. We aim to explain all strategies clearly so you can make the best decisions for you, based on your needs and preferences.

Does financial planning really add value?

Yes! A Morningstar study projects the value of comprehensive financial and investment advice at 1.6% per year, after all fees. A Vanguard study found the potential value to be 3% after all fees over time. Learn more.

What services do you offer?

Our comprehensive wealth management for assets-under-management clients includes investment management, ESG investing/socially responsible investing, tax reduction strategies, retirement planning, pre- and post-divorce planning, assistance in decisions after the loss of a partner, estate planning, and college planning.

We will sometimes start with a one-time project plan for those who need more time to explore investment management. This offering is subject to staff availability. The minimum fee for this service is $7,500 and is adjusted for complexity.

We also offer a Divorce Consulting service during and/or after a divorce, billed on an hourly basis.

Where will my assets be held?

Most client investments are custodied through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. One of the first firms to focus on individual financial planning, Raymond James has consistently been ranked among the nation’s top financial firms.

How will you work with my attorney and accountant?
We proactively coordinate with other professionals and believe open lines of communications improve the holistic service we provide.
Who would I work with?

Your main point of contact will be one of our Wealth Managers. But we use a team-based approach that takes advantage of different areas of expertise.

Our Client Service staff will make sure your needs are taken care of, whether you are visiting in person or working with us virtually.

How do I get started?

Book a no-cost discovery call to see if we are the right fit for you.

Not sure how to choose an advisor?

See 10 questions to ask — and why they matter.

 

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