Topic: Confluence Careers

  • Your Financial Guide for a Career Transition

    Navigating a job change is a significant undertaking, especially for those with considerable assets and financial interests. This guide is designed for professionals, including executives, physicians, and business owners as they work through the intricacies of transitioning to new opportunities.

    Here are some important things to consider:

    • Review your compensation plan.

    Understanding your compensation package is important, because compensation is usually a huge part of transition decision. Beyond salary, bonuses, and deferred compensation, it’s essential to assess the long-term value of your total package. For example, if you are re-locating, consider the impact of cost-of-living adjustments.

    Don’t forget to evaluate non-monetary benefits such as professional development opportunities, wellness opportunities, and overall company culture. All of these can have a significant impact on your job satisfaction and overall well-being.

    • Evaluate your retirement plan.

    What do I do with my old retirement plan(s)?

    Roll into an IRA: Working with a financial advisor can help you determine if rolling into an Individual Retirement Account makes sense. The benefits of this option include having more investment flexibility and control. Typically, you will have a broader range of investment options compared to an employer sponsored 401(k) plan. This allows you to diversify your portfolio while also consolidating accounts if you have multiple 401(k)s with previous employers. If you work with an advisor, you will have professional investment management as well as financial planning available. A good financial advisor will also be able to help with tax and estate planning matters, though he/she cannot replace your CPA or attorney.

    or

    Move your old retirement plan to your new employer: Most employer sponsored retirement plans allow for assets from previous retirement plans to flow into the new plan. This is certainly better than leaving the assets with your old employer’s plan, but this option likely does not include the investment options and flexibility as well as professional management and planning found if you roll assets into a managed IRA. That said, it may be your lowest cost option.

    • Understand changes to your health insurance.

    Be aware if there is a waiting period for health insurance with your new employer. If that is the case, look into extending your previous employer’s coverage through COBRA if there is a gap.

    Have a solid understanding of the different health insurance plans offered by your employer and consider factors such as the network of providers, deductibles, co-pays, coverage for prescription drugs and preventative care to name a few.

    Take advantage of  tax-advantaged accounts like Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)s and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)s if your employer offers them.  These accounts can help you save money on qualified medical expenses. Additionally, HSAs can serve as an additional retirement savings vehicle.

    • Review Stock Options and Equity Compensation Programs.

    If your previous employer offered stock options or equity, be sure to understand the vesting schedules and the implications of leaving.

    Equity compensation can significantly increase your wealth, but also add complexity to your financial and tax planning picture. For example, the decision to exercise stock options should be timed to optimize tax implications and align with your broader financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Working with a financial advisor can help you make an informed financial decision.

    Melissa Pirosko
    About the Author

    Melissa’s love of investing combined with her desire to help and serve others led her to a career in wealth management. Melissa enjoys working with clients to help them reach their financial goals and focuses on building long term relationships with each of her clients based on integrity and trust.

  • 5 Benefits of working with a Registered Investment Advisor

    by Jackson Elizondo

    Working with a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) is desirable for high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutions for the personal, unbiased, and tailored advice to their unique financial situation. They have a fiduciary duty to act in your best interest while providing comprehensive financial services to meet your goals.

    What is an RIA? 

    A Registered Investment Advisor is a firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that provides clients with financial advice. A team of advisors will often employ their expertise for customized guidance with the freedom to choose from a wide range of investment options for tailored advice for you.

    What is the benefit of working with a Registered Investment Advisor?

    1. A legal obligation to act in your best interest

    The fiduciary standard of an RIA has a “fundamental obligation” to work in the best interests of its advisory clients. Recommendations will be made in good faith, based on your needs, and allow a direct line of communication if there is a need for clarification or change.

    1. Providing more than just investment advice

    Financial professional teams within an RIA firm are often skilled in disciplines beyond just portfolio management. They include retirement, estate, charitable legacy, tax, insurance, education planning for you and your family, and corporate services, including employee benefits. These teams will work hand-in-hand with an established financial network to develop investment strategies considering tailored solutions for your unique financial situation.

    1. Transparent & available public records

    Each RIA must file and publicly post a Form ADV that offers a comprehensive view of the organization. A Form ADV offers objective and transparent information, including conflicts of interests, compensation, disciplinary filings, education, and the firm’s key personnel.

    1. Straightforward fee-based compensation

    Many RIA’s offer financial advice and planning for a fee based on a percentage of your assets under management. This service creates a mutual benefit of a transparent fee structure that aligns the clients’ best interests with those of the RIA.

    1. Professional Education

    Many wealth management teams will usually include highly experienced financial professionals with prestigious designations. These teams often bolster professional training and certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) designation, Accredited Asset Management Specialists® (AAMS®), Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) and commit themselves to continuous education on your behalf.

    Consider a Registered Investment Advisor at Confluence Financial Partners

    Simple, straightforward, and non-biased assistance with your comprehensive financial plan aligns with the priorities of an RIA. If you are looking for wealth management advice at a concierge level of service, Confluence Financial Partners, may be the team of financial professionals for you.

    Please contact a member of the Kimmich Team if you’re interested in having a discussion.

    Jackson Elizondo
    About the Author

    Jackson Elizondo is dedicated to making a positive impact in his community, a commitment that led him to a career in wealth management.