GETTING STARTED
What to organize before your first financial planning conversation
You do not need a perfect spreadsheet or a box of statements to begin. A few thoughtful notes can make the first conversation far more useful.
Name the reason you are looking now
What changed? Which decision keeps returning? What would feel clearer or more possible if the conversation went well?
List the decisions with a clock attached
Note upcoming retirement dates, benefit elections, equity deadlines, property decisions, business changes, or family events that may affect timing.
Describe the broader picture
A simple outline of income sources, major assets and liabilities, family responsibilities, and existing professional relationships is enough for an introductory view.
Bring questions about the relationship itself
Ask how decisions are approached, what ongoing service looks like, how communication works, what services are and are not provided, and how fees would be explained.
Avoid sending sensitive information through public channels
Do not email or submit account numbers, Social Security numbers, passwords, detailed holdings, or identity documents unless an approved method has been provided.
