Frequently Asked Questions

At Clarity Wealth Advisors, we believe financial planning should feel approachable and personalized. Below are answers to common questions people ask when considering working with a financial advisor.

How do financial advisors get paid? 

We offer advisor fee-based services, which may include a percentage of assets under management, flat financial planning fees, or insurance commissions, depending on your needs and goals. We’ll clearly outline all costs before moving forward with any recommendations.

Do I need a certain amount of money to work with you?

We work with individuals and families at various stages of wealth, but our most common clients are high earners, business owners, and those at or nearing retirement. We’ll let you know if we’re a good fit after an initial conversation.

What’s your financial planning process?

We start with a complimentary initial consultation to determine if we are a good fit. From there, we take a deeper dive into your financial situation, build a personalized plan, review it together, and provide ongoing guidance and adjustments as life changes.

What makes your firm different from other advisors?

We take a consultative approach that focuses on education and guidance.  Offering proactive communication, customized advice, and a clear path so you can feel confident and in control of your financial future.

Financial Planning Basics 

What does a financial advisor actually do?

We help you create a strategy to manage your money, plan for the future, invest wisely, seek to reduce taxes, and protect your family with insurance strategies. It’s not just about managing investments; it’s about your full financial life. 

What’s the difference between a fee-only and commission-based advisor?

Fee-only advisors are paid only by clients, while commission-based advisors earn money by selling products. We offer both fee-based planning and commission-based insurance solutions, depending on what is needed to build out your financial plan.

How do I know if I need a financial advisor?

If you’re making good money, planning for retirement, dealing with taxes, or unsure what to do with your investments, a financial advisor can help bring clarity and confidence.

What is a fiduciary, and are you one?

A fiduciary is required to act in your best interest. Yes, when we provide investment advice, we act as fiduciaries.

Retirement & Investments

How do I know if I’m ready to retire?

Retirement readiness depends on your savings, lifestyle needs, and long-term plan. We can run the numbers and help you feel confident in your timing.

What’s your investment philosophy?

We believe in long-term, diversified investing based on your goals, not market timing or speculation. Portfolios are tailored to your risk tolerance, timeline, and investing with purpose to how it all fits within your personalized financial plan.

Should I consolidate my 401k and IRA accounts?

Consolidating your accounts can simplify your finances and make it easier to manage your investments based on your overall financial plan. However, there may be instances where we don’t recommend it if it’s not in your best interest do so.

What’s the difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA?

Traditional IRAs are tax-deductible now but taxed later. Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax money but grow and withdraw tax-free. We help you decide which fits best.

When should I take my Social Security?

The best time to take Social Security will depend on your health, income needs, and overall retirement goals.  Waiting until full retirement age and beyond will result in a higher benefit, but taking early may make sense if you need the income.  We can provide you with guidance on what’s best for you based on your plan.

Taxes, Insurance & Estate Planning

Do you help with tax planning strategies?

Yes, we look for strategies that aim to reduce your tax bill now and in the future, including deferral strategies, Roth conversions, tax-efficient investing, and smart withdrawal strategies.

Can you advise on insurance, like life, disability, and long-term care?

Absolutely. Risk management is a key part of your financial plan. We’ll help determine what gaps you may have in your plan and if coverage is right for you and your family.

Do you offer estate planning services?

While we’re not attorneys, we coordinate with your estate planning professional and help make sure your plan aligns with your financial goals.