Do you offer an initial consultation?

Yes.  We offer a free, no-obligation, 45-minute meeting. The general purpose of this meeting is to see if we're a good fit for each other.  It gives you the opportunity to learn more about Cornerstone and to ask any questions that you may have.  It also gives us a chance to understand your financial goals and needs and go over the services we offer our clients.

Do I have to live locally to be a client?

No. Many of our clients live throughout the country. We have perfected the “phone meeting”.  For those who are not local, our “meetings” are conducted over the phone and the internet.  In many cases, for our very busy local clients we conduct phone meetings as well.

Are your fees tax deductible?

Fees paid for advisory/planning services may be a tax deductible item on your Schedule A, Schedule C (if appropriate), or as a corporate expense if offered as a benefit to executives and/or employees. Consult your tax advisor annually to determine your eligibility.


Do I need a lot of money to need an advisor?

No.  In many ways, individuals who are not already financially secure are most in need of an advisor. The peace of mind that comes from organizing your financial affairs and getting started on the path toward your financial and personal goals is immeasureable. What's more, often we can recommend simple steps and changes that will immediately improve a client's financial situation. These immediate savings/improvements are often in excess of Cornerstone’s fee.

Do I need a minimum account size (in dollars) to be a client?

No. There is, however, a $1,500 minimum annual fee for our Financial Planning and Investment Management clients.

Do you provide advice on all areas of my financial life?

Yes.  Specifically, we provide advice on the following six areas:

• Financial Position
  
  
• Risk Management
  
  
• Investment Planning
  
  
• Tax Planning
  
  
• Retirement Planning
  
  
• Estate Planning
  
  
  

I already have an attorney or CPA, how do you work with my other advisers?

It is not our desire to interrupt your existing relationships with your other professional advisers.  Most of our clients do work with attorneys, CPA’s, bankers and mortgage professionals.   As your financial adviser, we will communicate with your other professionals as needed to make sure everyone is working in your best interest.
 

What if I need to buy investment or insurance products?

We do offer specific recommendations and opinions on appropriate products and services, and we will assist you with implementing your plan to the degree you desire.


Do you offer second opinions?

Yes. If you're unsure of or uncomfortable with the recommendations made to you by another advisor/planner, we are happy to review his or her advice.


Am I obligated to purchase products that Cornerstone recommends?

No. You always have complete discretion when it comes to implementing the advice.