Why fee only, Why ASI? Other than the recognizable reasons:

• Being a fiduciary
• Providing uncompromised financial advice
• Fully transparent service model and pricing

In short it’s personal, my passion for finance and technology expands beyond the surface and extends to every area of life. With experience in financial planning, and continuing to learn and grow within the industry I founded A Small Investment, LLC to further my passion.

Why Fee-Only Financial Planning is Better for Your Financial Future

Why is financial planning crucial for financial success? Financial planning encompasses every area of finances from investing to insurance, estate planning to tax planning, retirement savings, and income planning.

Considering all areas of finances is essential, and planning for the unexpected, next big purchase, or naturally knowing what will happen with your money.

Not only does having a plan allow for structure but also flexibility in knowing that you are on course to maximize the potential of reaching your financial goals.

Define fee-only financial planning and traditional financial advice

Fee-only financial planning

Fee only financial planning consists of receiving financial services in exchange for the fee. As for A Small Investment, LLC we provide our service on a fee only basis and do not receive any other compensation from clients or third parties. 

This eliminates the inherent possibility of guiding towards products or services that will provide the advisor/planner with a commission or payment for a recommendation that may or may not be in the best interest of the client. 

For example, someone meets with me for a financial planning consultation. In brief, I first get to know them and what’s most important to them financially speaking. Provide actionable value to their most pressing questions. 

Then we mutually agree if there will be a good fit. If so, we dive into a comprehensive financial planning engagement, and unbiased financial planning will occur and they know exactly what they will receive from the engagement and what they will pay.

No hidden fees or additional charges.

Traditional Financial Advice

Traditional financial advice is generally centered around investments. Although investments are a key component, investments are not the be all and end all. 

With the evolving of the financial industry financial planning is widely accepted. In most cases financial planning is provided complimentary and the charge or fee is from the assets/liabilities the advisor manages.

With traditional advice clients may have a situation that arises where the advisor can recommend a product or solution at a higher cost or lower quality, while making an additional incentive or compensation.

Fee-only financial planning offers significant advantages over traditional financial advice models

Understanding the Difference

Traditional Financial Advice

Fee-Only Financial Planning

Fee only is exactly that Fee only. What does it mean to be fee only?

The client pays the fee and only the fee, no additional charges or commissions. And with A Small Investment, LLC you know exactly what service will be provided and the cost .

Rather, you are deciding how and how much to save for education expenses. Or, what is the best systematic manner to withdraw assets in retirement. 

This is done in a transparent manner, with the choice of getting additional support if needed. As a fee only planner I do not receive commissions.

Additionally, I uphold the fiduciary standard. Always acting in the client’s best interest.

The Benefits of Fee-Only Financial Planning

Unbiased Advice

As a fee only financial planner my sole focus is on your best interest. I’m not influenced by consolidating your assets, or liquidating your retirement account to purchase a different investment.

I will objectively view your situation and provide you with unbiased advice. This includes a one off project to determine the best action for one area of your finances.

Or a comprehensive financial plan, covering all aspects of your finances.

Transparency and Trust

We provide:

• Clear and upfront fee structure.
• No hidden costs or incentives to recommend certain products.

This builds a foundation of trust between you and me as your Financial Planner.

Holistic Financial Planning

I focus on comprehensive financial advice, and that advice will maximize your potential to meet your financial goals. Some clients I collaborate with on a one off basis, and others we cover all aspects of a client’s financial life (investments, taxes, retirement, estate planning, and income planning).

Long-Term Relationship

I provide the most value during long term engagements. This ensures continuous support and advice as life and financial needs evolve.

Your goal may be a special bequest, or living your dream in your golden years. With our long term planning you will have confidence in your financial future.

Top Two Common Misconceptions About Fee-Only Financial Planning

1. “Fee-Only is Too Expensive”
   • The long-term value of receiving unbiased, fiduciary advice. Goes beyond an annual fee or AUM it’s fact in knowing that your best interest is first and foremost.
   • Comparing the upfront fee vs. the not so visible cost of commission-based models.The up front fee is paid and you know that you will not be faced with any additional advice related fees. 
   • Also, me as the planner can make recommendations that are for your best interest, and not what’s going to pay me the highest commission. 
2. “Fee-Only Planners Are Limited in What They Can Offer”
   • Clarification fee-only planners can provide a wide range of services, often more comprehensive than commission-based advisors.
   • I’m not beholden to the institution that pays my paycheck or the investment firm that manages the firm’s assets. I am acting in your best interest at all times.

Why A Small Investment?

• Recap of the benefits of choosing a fee-only financial planner.
• Emphasize that fee-only planning ensures that the client’s financial well-being remains the top priority.
• Call to action: Encouraging readers to consider fee-only financial advice for their future.

Choosing me a fee-only financial planner ensures that your best interests are always the priority. Unlike commission-based advisors, fee-only planners like me offer unbiased, objective advice without conflicts of interest. 

You’ll benefit from transparent pricing, knowing exactly what services you are paying for with no hidden fees. This approach allows you to make informed financial decisions with confidence.

At A Small Investment, LLC, I go beyond being a fee-only planner—this is personal for me. My passion for finance and technology fuels my dedication to helping clients achieve their financial goals. 

Whether it’s a one-time project or ongoing financial planning, I’m committed to providing clear, personalized guidance that addresses all aspects of your financial life. Reach out today to discover how ASI can help you build a secure financial future with a you-first approach.

Infographic for Flat Fee vs. AUM: