Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell any financial or investment products like annuities or insurance that make you a commission?
Earlier in my career I did, because I didn’t know any better. I have seen the light and believe in no sales (other than selling myself) and a focus on planning, Advice Only, Hourly Planning. That’s what you’ll get from CFC. The term “Fee-Only” (or fee-for-service) refers to how an advisor is compensated. A fee-only financial planner is paid directly by their client. I do not earn a commission of any kind for product sales or referrals. It is the a method of advisor compensation that is transparent, objective, and minimizes conflicts of interest.
Are you a Fiduciary? If so, what does that mean?
Yes. A Fiduciary must act in their clients’ best interest 100% of the time. In putting your plan together, I’m asking myself along the way, is this the best recommendation for you. Under the Fiduciary Standard, advisors are legally sworn and obligated to always place the best interest of their client ahead of their own. The advisor must disclose any conflicts of interest, and clearly define how they are paid.
I do not live in Wisconsin, can I still work with you?
Although I’m based in Wisconsin, I work with clients throughout the country. I am not bound by geography when working with you. I seek out clients who are the best fit for me and my model, regardless of where they are located.
Who do I work with? Firm owner, Brian.
Do you work remotely/virtually?
I work with clients throughout the country using virtual meetings, conference calls, e-mails, secure file transfer, and an integrated suite of financial software. You do not need to be local to partner with my firm. I am happy to meet face to face if you are nearby, and I can travel to meet with you if it makes sense.
Your website says that you specialize in working with individuals approaching retirement. I am not of those. Will you still work with me?
While we have a specific experience and a process for working with people approaching retirement, we can likely work with most anyone who values comprehensive and ongoing financial planning using an Hourly Model. So even if you are in accumulation mode I would be happy to work with you. About 1/3 of my practice is spent with clients like this. Contact me so we can learn more about each other.
Where will my assets be held?
Assets will be held at their current custodian. If we determine it makes sense to change, we will consider Vanguard, www.vanguard.com, Fidelity, www.fidelity.com or Schwab, www.Schwab.com. I am familiar with each of these platforms.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. I offer a complimentary consultation by virtual meeting, phone call, or in person by appointment. If you would like the initial consult to be in person, please email me brian@clarkefinancialcounsel.com. During the meeting, we will discuss your goals, get to know one another, and answer any questions you may have surrounding our services or your financial planning needs.
I want to hire you, what happens next?
We’ll agree on a Tier, (Services & Fees) and determine an estimate. You will then receive an email from Advice Pay to sign the Client Agreement and pay the initial fee. I ask that you pay half of the estimated fee upfront. You can pay via credit card (Points!!) or ACH (Electronic Bank Transfer). Then the fun begins! You’ll also get an email to set up your Financial Planning Account from Right Capital. First year is the Foundation year and we’ll meet 5-6 times (or as many times as necessary).
Is the relationship ongoing I prefer ongoing. We’ll do the heavy lift in year 1 then have annual or semiannual reviews. But if you would like to do a one time project, I will provide this.
I am ready to have a conversation. How do I start?