Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about working together.
Common Questions
Do I have to work in tech?
No, but I have deep experience working with tech professionals from my time in Silicon Valley and software engineering. My services are structured to accommodate the realities of the tech industry, like equity compensation, IPOs, and volatile stock grants.
Do I have to move my investments?
No. Pricing is the same regardless. You can keep your investments at your current custodian while I provide holistic portfolio design and guidance.
Do you have any account minimums?
No minimums, since I don't charge based on assets under management. That said, my ongoing services are best suited for those with $300k+ household income, $1M+ in assets, or equity compensation.
Are you a fiduciary?
Yes. I'm legally obligated to act in your best interest and have signed a Fiduciary Oath with the XY Planning Network. I'm also a Candidate for CFP® Certification.
Why "fee-only"? What about "fee-based"?
Fee-only means my compensation comes exclusively from client fees - no commissions, no third-party payments. Fee-based advisors can receive additional compensation through product commissions, which creates conflicts of interest.
Why flat fees instead of AUM?
AUM fees create a conflict of interest - the more assets you keep invested, the more I earn. Flat fees mean my advice is always aligned with what's best for you, whether that's paying down a mortgage, exercising options, or investing more.
Are you a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)?
I've completed the CFP coursework and exam and submitted my Ethics Declaration. I'm currently working on the experience requirements to earn the full certification.
Do you work with clients outside SF and Boston?
Yes! While many of my clients are in the Bay Area and Boston, I work with tech professionals nationwide. All meetings are virtual.
Do you do projects?
Yes. Project-style engagements focus on single-meeting sessions addressing specific questions, while ongoing advisory relationships provide deeper, holistic work.
What is your investing philosophy?
I use passive, low-cost index funds for equity allocations. I emphasize tax-efficient asset location and tax-loss harvesting, and I can accommodate employer stock preferences within reason.
Can you do my taxes?
Tax planning is integral to my financial planning services, but I don't offer tax preparation. I coordinate with your tax preparer to make sure everything aligns with the plan.
How do you feel about debt?
I lean debt-averse. If you're planning to use significant leverage as a core strategy, I may not be the best fit.
How do you store and safeguard my data?
I take data privacy seriously. You can find details in my Privacy Policy, and I'm happy to answer specific technology questions directly.
What's included in the free intro call?
A 20-minute conversation to understand your financial situation, discuss what you're looking for, and determine if we're a good fit. No pressure, no sales pitch.
Still have questions?
Book a free intro call and let's chat.