The Standard Retainer
The first year working together, we systematically go through every area of your finances so that we’ve got a solid foundation for our relationship. For one tax- deductible fee, we develop a comprehensive plan and mental vision of your financial future.
With most clients, in the first year we meet in 6-10 times either in person, or on the phone and Internet. We go over every area of your finances. Typically, we will have one meeting to cover each of the following areas (depending on the complexity of your situation):
Retirement + Education funding
I believe that it’s important to make this is simple as possible so that you understand the assumptions, variables and results of this planning. We return to this yearly. As you understand the methodology, your peace of mind grows because you know that your long-term goals are being attended to.
Investment strategy
My philosophy is to invest for the long term and take risk that is appropriate given your life situation, attitude, and time frame. Together we do a personal risk assessment to help you understand the true risks you face. Next, we create an investment strategy together. Then, we periodically review your situation to make sure you stay on track.
Principal residence / real estate analysis
For most clients, their principal residence is the single biggest investment that they make. We look at how your principal residence is working with your entire investment strategy. I analyze real estate investments. So, if you own a two flat or an apartment building, we go over the rent you should be charging, the return you should be getting, and the pluses and minuses of selling. I give unbiased advice because I'm not selling real estate or stocks.
Tax preparation
I specialize in individual tax returns. I don’t do corporate, partnership, or other returns, so I can focus on providing high quality tax advice. My goal is to make sure you're taking every deduction legally available so that you pay the least amount of tax possible. I look at your previous 3 years returns and can file amended returns to correct errors on previous returns and to claim overlooked deductions.
Tax planning
Together we look at your tax situation during the year, not after the year is over. I help you plan for deductions and investments while there is still time to implement the strategies. Because I work with both with tax and investments, I can provide integrated tax investment strategies to help you make more on your investments and pay less in taxes.
Insurance review
For many people, this is the first time they have gotten any insurance advice from someone not trying to sell them products. Together we look at each of your insurance policies and answer two questions to help you save money while reducing your risk exposure.
Goal setting
Financial peace of mind is an emotional and, for some, a spiritual state. Together we address the emotional and spiritual progress needed to reach your goals. This helps you:
Understand your financial goals
Test them against reality
Engage your imagination and visualize what you want.
Cash management
Together we design a way to manage cash that works for you. We analyze your cash flow so that you maximize the amount of cash you have to spend. We follow your bill paying from inbox to outbox to make sure you spend as little time as is effective paying the bills. And I provide “home files” system that helps you know which documents to keep and which to pitch.
Estate planning
I explain the tax consequences of dying help you plan your will and your legacy.
In addition to our meetings, working with me also includes:
Open retainer
You can call or email me whenever you have financial questions, and we can set up additional appointments at no additional cost to you. I want to make sure that all of your questions are answered and all of your concerns are resolved.
Audit protection
If a tax return I prepared gets audited, I will represent you in front of the IRS at no additional fee. You can rest assured that I stand behind my work and you won’t have to go face-to-face with the IRS.
Interested? Fill out the contact form below and I will contact you.