FAQ's
- What is a financial planner/advisor?
Anyone can say they are a financial planner or advisor. That is why it is essential to be certain of the qualifications and credentials of any “planner” or “advisor” before you entrust them with your financial matters.
- What is hourly, fee only financial planning and why is that important?
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Hourly, fee-only means that all conflicts of interest regarding compensation are removed. Hourly, fee-only financial planners do not accept sales commissions and work solely for the benefit of the client. We are not affiliated with a brokerage firm, insurance company or other organization. There are no third-party relationships that influence our recommendations because we do not sell financial products such as investments or insurance.
- What is divorce financial planning and what is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™?
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Divorce financial planners provide guidance through financial issues before, during or after the divorce process. A Certified Divorce Financial Analyst ™ has completed specialized training in the financial and tax issues of divorce. The services provided in divorce planning are unique to each case and are tailored to the needs and interests of each client. Clients include individuals or couples, depending on the circumstances. In addition to specialized training, a divorce financial analyst must also fulfill ongoing continuing educational requirements and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.
- Is Blazek Financial Planning a Registered Investment Advisor?
Blazek Financial Planning is a Registered Investment Advisor in the State of Illinois. We must comply with a host of government regulations designed for your protection.
When considering using a financial planner’s services, it is important to ask for and review a copy of the ADV Part II. Blazek Financial Planning’s ADV Part II is available in the “Forms” section of our website. The ADV Part II contains information relating to the planner’s qualifications, fiduciary duties and history of any past violations.
- What is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)?
To become a Certified Financial Planner CFP® you must complete a curriculum that includes course work in Insurance, Investments, Tax, Retirement Planning and Estate Planning. In addition, you must pass a rigorous 10 hour exam; have a minimum of three years of related experience and at least a bachelor’s degree.
- How can a financial planner/advisor help me?
Anyone looking for financial peace of mind can benefit from working with a competent financial advisor, either periodically or on a regular basis. Each situation is unique which is why we use a practical business approach and custom tailor services to meet client’s needs.
We serve individuals and business owners at all income levels and from all walks of life. Because our fees are on an hourly basis, we offer an affordable opportunity for beginners, middle income Americans and do-it-yourselfers to get quality financial and investment advice. We also have the knowledge and experience to offer advice on more sophisticated and complex matters facing higher net worth individuals and business owners.
- What should I be looking for in a financial planner/advisor?
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Someone who is accessible and listens to what matters to you
Someone who asks about personal goals and makes written recommendations that are
consistent with your goalsSomeone who discusses risk tolerance and time horizon before creating a plan and
recommending investmentsSomeone who advocates a consistent strategy and does not make representations
regarding timing the marketSomeone who recommends more than one company’s products and does not apply
pressure to make any particular investment
- What if I want or need to buy investment or insurance products?
While we do not sell financial products, we will offer specific recommendations and opinions regarding various products and services that may be appropriate for your situation. We will then advise on where to obtain those products or services. At your request, we can assist you with implementing our recommendations.
- Can you provide advice on how I should invest my 401(k), 403 (b), or 457 (b) plan?
Yes, we provide advice to clients who have tax deferred plans through their employer.
- Am I obligated to purchase recommended products?
Absolutely not! We offer recommendations to meet your needs and objectives but you are under no obligation to purchase anything. The extent of our involvement in assisting with the purchase of a product or investment is up to you. We can help you purchase investments and/or set up your accounts or you can choose to implement the recommendations on your own.
Because we are not compensated by commissions on the products or mutual funds, you can be assured that our recommendations are based on what we believe is in your best interest.
- How do you charge for your financial planning services?
First, there is no charge for the initial consultation which generally takes approximately 45 minutes. Beyond that, we charge an hourly fee or a fixed fee. Once the scope of the project is identified, and we agree on the specific services to be rendered, we will provide a fee quote. Our quote is base on the estimated time involved in meeting with you, researching and analyzing the data provided, developing recommendations and providing on going advice as it relates to the plan.
- Are your fees tax deductible?
Yes, with certain limitations. Section 212 of the Internal Revenue Code permits an itemized deduction for tax and/or investment advice in the miscellaneous section of Schedule A. All combined miscellaneous fees must be greater than 2% of your adjusted gross income in order to be deductible.
- How do we get started?
E-Mail us at Laurie@BlazekFinancialPlanning.com or call us at 708-366-4033 to schedule an appointment. There is no charge for our first meeting. Once you have made an appointment, we ask that you complete our Financial Planning Questionnaire and e-mail or mail it to us in advance of our meeting. This questionnaire is available in the “Forms” section of our website.