Frequently Asked Questions
Clear Answers to Your Financial Planning and Tax Questions
FAQS
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Yes. We are a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA), legally required to act in your best interest whenever we provide investment advice. That means no hidden agendas or product sales pushing. We fully disclose any conflicts of interest and manage them transparently. Our recommendations come from a place of understanding your unique needs — not from commissions or bonuses.
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The Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) designation is a CPA-only credential for advisors who combine deep tax knowledge with comprehensive financial planning skills. It means your advisor understands how taxes impact every financial decision, so your plan is built on a foundation that looks beyond numbers to what matters in your life.
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We provide tax return preparation through our affiliate, Thomas & Thomas, under a separate engagement. This setup allows us to coordinate your tax planning with preparation, ensuring your filings support your overall financial goals. We handle the details so you won’t have to worry about conflicting advice or missed opportunities.
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Absolutely. While our headquarters are in Southern California, we serve clients nationwide through secure remote communication. Distance doesn’t limit the quality or depth of our advice. We make sure you feel supported and informed no matter where you live.
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Your accounts are held directly in your name at Charles Schwab, a trusted third-party custodian. We never take custody of your money. You have full, anytime access to your accounts and can verify your holdings independently. This separation protects your assets and keeps your investments transparent.
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We are a fee-only advisory firm, which means we earn money only from the fees you pay us. No commissions, no product sales incentives. We provide a clear, written fee schedule tailored to your needs. Fees typically come as a percentage of assets under management, a flat retainer, or a combination. This straightforward approach keeps our advice objective and aligned with your goals.
We know managing your finances and taxes can feel overwhelming, especially without the time or background to tackle it alone.
If you don’t find what you need in the FAQs above, reach out directly — we’re ready to help you understand your full financial picture.