Frequently Asked Questions
When can I retire?
Everyone’s lifestyle expenses vary, so a financial plan is critical to determine your ability to meet spending needs.
Are you a fiduciary?
Yes, we operate as and are regulated as fiduciaries. We always work in the best interests of our clients.
How do you make money?
Our compensation comes solely from fees paid by our clients for our expertise. We do not sell products or receive commissions, kickbacks, or referral fees for recommending one solution over another.
How do other financial advisors make money?
Common financial advisor compensation structures include billing based on a percentage of assets under management (AUM), flat fees, or commissions related to product sales.
Do you manage investments?
Yes. We manage our clients’ investments according to their retirement plans. Managing the investment account allows us more administrative control to implement and monitor their retirement plan recommendations.
Do you provide tax planning?
Yes. We understand that the client’s tax return will reflect almost every financial decision. It is important to understand how financial transactions will be reflected in the tax return and plan accordingly.
Is a 401k rollover a good option for my old 401k?
It could depend on factors such as your age, employment status, risk tolerance, fee structure, and income needs. Consult with a financial advisor to review your options.
Is social security income taxable?
It can be, depending on your other sources of retirement income. To plan accordingly, review all sources of income with a retirement-focused financial advisor.
How much does Medicare cost, and what is IRMAA?
This will also depend on your level and sources of retirement income. Retirees should be conscious of the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) Medicare Parts B and D surcharges.
What are my health insurance options before turning 65?
Most retirees who are ineligible for Medicare will secure a private insurance policy. Your financial advisor can help review your coverage options.
Should I convert to Roth accounts by performing a Roth Conversion?
Roth conversions can be a helpful strategy to potentially pay taxes owed in tax-deferred, such as a 401k, at lower marginal tax rates. Early retirement is a popular time to consider this strategy. Retirees should consult a tax professional before implementing this themselves.
What is Tax-Loss Harvesting?
Tax-loss harvesting is an investment strategy that attempts to lower the taxes an investor owes during the current taxable year. Investors using tax-loss harvesting may choose to sell some securities at a loss and then use those losses to offset capital gains or ordinary income. Often, another security is bought shortly after to maintain a similar investment objective. While some advisors perform tax-loss harvesting sporadically throughout the year, we can provide the service continuously to minimize missed opportunities.
Can I still become a client if I don’t live in Greenville, SC?
We can help. Our local office for in-person meetings is located in Greenville, but we have clients throughout South Carolina and the United States. We often meet with remote clients via video.
Are you the best financial advisor for me in Greenville, SC?
It depends on your needs. If you are looking for tax planning and investment management, we might work well together. If you have other needs, we can refer you to other advisors accordingly.
Do you work with clients in person anywhere else in the Carolinas?
We work with clients in Hilton Head, SC, and Charlotte, NC, although we don’t have physical office locations in those areas.