What if I need help after my 6 month package is done?

You can switch to a month to month engagement for as long as you’d like. Please contact me for pricing.

Can you work with me if I’m in a different state?

Yes. Because I provide financial advice, and not state-dependent legal advice, I can work with you no matter what state you live in.

Are you a fiduciary? What is a fiduciary anyway?

I am a fiduciary, which means I am legally required to act in your best interests, even if it conflicts with my own interests. For example, I can’t recommend that you buy a certain product just because I will earn more money. Since I am a fee-only advisor, I charge a fee for financial planning and advice, but not for selling specific products.

How do you collect fees? Can I make payments?

All fees for packages are broken up into 6 monthly payments, with the first payment due upon signing your contract. 

Do you work with non-divorcees or widows, or men?

My services are geared towards divorcees and widows, but I do have a handful of clients outside that niche. Contact me to discuss if we’d be a good fit.

Can you manage my investment accounts?

You can add investment management for an additional fee. You would need to move your accounts to Betterment in order for me to manage them for you. This isn’t required though, and I can help advise you on your investments wherever you hold them, but I can’t manage them on your behalf unless they’re held with Betterment.

Can you help me with my investments where they are currently held? 

Yes! As part of your plan we will review your investments and make recommendations. If you hold your accounts elsewhere, it will be up to you to implement the changes with that custodian. The custodian won’t allow me to do any transactions on your behalf without you on the phone with me.

What is your investment strategy?

I believe in a low-cost, passive investment approach and try to incorporate socially responsible investment options wherever possible. 

What if I am dissatisfied with my plan?

Your 100% satisfaction is my top priority. If at any point in the planning process you don’t feel that you’ve received any value, I will refund your money within 7 days.

What’s the difference between the Post-Divorce Transition Support and the Post-Divorce Financial Planning?

The Transition Support is intended for women who have very recently finalized their divorce, who want to focus on the shorter term tasks of transitioning their finances. The Financial Planning package is intended for women who have been divorced at least 6 months, who have completed the initial tasks of transitioning their finances and are ready to do some longer term planning for their future.

Do you give legal advice?

I am not an attorney and do not give legal advice or draft any legal documents. I can give you general education on the different types of estate planning documents and what they are used for. I would be glad to refer you to an attorney in my network.

Do you do mediation?

Some CDFAs do mediation as well, but I do not. I won’t take the place of a mediator, but I can work in conjunction with your mediator.

Will you work with my ex and I together?

Some CDFAs can act as a financial neutral in the mediation process, but I serve as a financial advocate for the woman. I think doing mediation with a financial neutral is a fantastic option, and there are many CDFAs who specialize in working with couples together. I’d be happy to provide some referrals.

Do you do collaborative divorce work?

Collaborative divorce refers to the process where each spouse’s attorney work together with experts in finance and mental health to come up with an optimal solution for the couple. I currently just work one on one with women as her financial advocate, although I can provide financial analysis requested by other professionals on your divorce team.

Why do I need a CDFA if I have an attorney/accountant/financial advisor?

Many clients assume their attorney will advise them on all financial matters. While attorneys play a crucial role in the process of divorce, they usually are not trained in the intricate financial details that concern tax issues, IRS rulings, real property issues, dividing pensions, etc. Most financial planners and accountants excel in their chosen field, but they have little to no training specifically related to the financial issues of a divorce.  

At what point in the divorce process should I meet with a CDFA?

The earlier you have a good understanding of your finances going into divorce, the better. There are benefits to working with a CDFA at any point in the divorce process.