FAQ

Clients work with us for different reasons.  We believe most of our clients work with us because they trust us, we see the whole picture, and we help them define and achieve their goals. Often new clients begin working with us due to a major life event, such as the death of a spouse, and need help getting organized. The third most popular reason we feel clients work with us is that we are professionals who study financial planning every day, and they want experts guiding this part of their lives.

There are many ways financial advisors charge clients, with the most common being the “Assets Under Management” or “Managed-Portfolio” approach. At IEM, we believe that clients are unique and should ONLY pay for the services they need. This is why we have an “a la carte” pricing model. In general, most clients pay us a consulting engagement for holistic financial planning which is separate from any investment management so that we can act as fiduciaries to give you advice that is not related to a product solution. Beyond the financial planning consulting, we also manage investments and do this through various managed portfolio options. We believe our clients like that we have the flexibility to charge only for what is appropriate for their individual needs.

As little or as much as you have! Since we have an a la carte billing system (see above), we can work with clients in all stages of life. Clients who are just starting out may only pay us for financial planning consulting. Clients who like our holistic advice and want us to help them manage their investment assets may also pay for a managed portfolio.

It depends on what your preference is and what you are going through! Most clients prefer an annual strategy meeting and a semi-annual check-in. Other clients who may be going through a major transition, like a new job or inheritance recipient, may require a series of conversations. With new clients, we typically meet 3-4 times up front, and then get on a regular cycle.

We work in a team-based environment. So, in general, you will have 2 advisors and 1-2 Client Services specialists dedicated to your unique situation.

In our annual strategy meeting, we review your progress, establish a current state of the union, and develop a plan for new goals going forward. The best way to assess progress is based upon progression towards your holistic plan and goals.

Visit our Contact Page and reach us by calling or sending an email. We will get back to you within 24 hours. Also, we would love to know how you were introduced to IEM, so please include the names of the introducer, we like to send our gratitude!