Our Financial Planning Process

Our Process

The Financial Planning Process

We believe that everyone who goes through our financial planning process is empowered to make better financial decisions, significantly improving their potential for success. We generally accept new clients only when they are engaging with us in ongoing financial planning services, as we find that allows us to provide the most objective advice and investment management that is more collaborative in nature.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Our first meeting is a complimentary consultation, where we work together to determine if we're a good fit. We will provide you an overview of how we work with clients, and take time to learn more about you. We use this time to determine the scope of work needed, and how we define a successful relationship. Only when everyone understands the scope of work and feels that the relationship will be beneficial, can we move forward.

Step 2: Data Verification

Next we have to make sure we have enough information. We'll gather statements, check for proper linking of accounts to our web-based planning tool, and make sure we understand your current financial position. We'll clearly define your goals and get to know your tolerance for investment risk. Only once we have very accurate information can we develop and tailor strategies for you.

Step 3: Decision Center

We review portfolios and policies to make sure your asset allocation is in alignment with your risk profile. We identify strengths and weaknesses in your current course of action as well as opportunities for improvements. We review different scenarios and how these choices can impact outcomes.

Step 4: Strategies & Recommendations

Using the analyses from our decision center meeting, we create a comprehensive report of recommendations and their projected outcomes to review in detail making sure you understand your options, and the steps to move forward. In addition to a comprehensive report, we also provide a simple list of actionable steps for you to take.

Step 5: Monitor and Evaluate on an Ongoing Basis.

We set up regular meetings throughout each year to monitor and evaluate progress made towards goals. We will then repeat this process annually so your plans and investments stays up to date.

Financial Position: We discuss your current financial position consisting of asset allocation, cash flow, taxes, and savings. We look for opportunities to make contributions for the prior tax year, make changes to ongoing contributions, and other potential investment and tax strategies for the new year.
Decision Center: Just like we did in year one, we discuss different scenarios and how different choices available to you can impact your outcomes. We adjust strategies to fit the most optimal outcome that fits your goals and preferences.
Protection, Estate Planning, and Goal Setting: We review your estate planning documents to make sure they are in line with your current goals. We review employee benefits as well as personal life, health, disability, and long term care insurance policies and needs. We prioritize goals that we will focus on in the upcoming calendar year.