Cathy Curtis, CFP®

Fiduciary Financial Advisor for Independent Women

We want to be your trusted financial partner, so you can focus on the rest of your life.

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Welcome to Curtis Financial Planning!

Financial Planning & Investment Management for Independent Women

We know that you could manage the details of your financial life yourself. We also know that not everyone wants to be a financial expert. It takes time and becomes a chore. 

You want to take advantage of financial strategies that can benefit you, but your time is limited. That’s where Curtis Financial Planning steps in. Our goal is to be your financial advocate and partner to ensure you make the smartest moves with your money. Whether it be retirement, tax or estate planning, investments, charitable giving, insurance or cash flow, we have the expertise to help you make sound financial decisions now and for your future.

Female Financial Advisor Oakland, CA

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

Mary Oliver

Our Awesome Clients

We specialize in helping self-made women and female-led households who want to delegate their ongoing financial planning and wealth management needs to a trusted advisor. Many of our clients come to us because they’re seeking more control over their day-to-day finances, navigating a major life change, or planning for the future.

Women Seeking Financial Confidence

Women Navigating a Major Life Change

Women Preparing for the Future

who we are

We manage the details of your financial life so you can focus on what you love and do best.

As a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor, we are legally bound to provide you with the highest standard of care. 

We are independent of proprietary products, sales quotas or other conflicts of interest that could influence our advice.

We consider both financial gain and social and environmental impact when making investment decisions on behalf of our clients.

FAQs

What kind of financial advisor are you?

I’m a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor, which means I don’t earn commissions or sell financial products. I’m only paid by my clients, ensuring that the advice I give is always in your best interest. I’m also independent, which means I’m not part of a large institution and don’t have corporate management dictating specific investment products or services. I build plans and portfolios customized to fit what’s best for you.

What makes your firm different?

I bring a deeply personal, thoughtful approach to financial planning that goes beyond spreadsheets. As a woman and a feminist, I understand the emotional and practical challenges women face when managing money. I provide a judgment-free space to talk openly about your finances, goals, and fears—whether you’ve inherited wealth, recently experienced a life transition, or are navigating a high-earning career on your own. My job is to help you make clear, confident decisions that support your independence, lifestyle, and values.

Are you a Certified Financial Planner™?

Yes. I am a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) professional. This designation represents the gold standard in financial planning and requires extensive training, continuing education, and adherence to a strict code of ethics. I use this expertise to guide you through everything from investments to taxes, retirement planning, charitable giving, and estate strategies.

Who do you work with?

I work primarily with single women or women who take the lead in the household finances, typically between the ages of 36 and 65, and who are progressive and values-driven. Many of my clients have inherited wealth, while others are high earners. I also have expertise in planning for self-employed professionals.

What is your investment philosophy?

I believe in evidence-based investing using low-cost, diversified portfolios built primarily with index funds and ETFs. Rather than trying to time the market or pick winning stocks, I focus on asset allocation that matches your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. I emphasize tax efficiency through strategies like tax-loss harvesting and thoughtful account placement. My approach prioritizes long-term wealth building over short-term performance, helping you stay disciplined during market volatility while keeping costs low so more of your money works for you.

Ready to take control of your financial future?

Our goal is to be your fiduciary financial partner so that you can focus on the rest of your life. If you’re ready to delegate the details of your financial life to an expert, get started today by scheduling an introductory call with Cathy. 

Cathy Curtis, CFP®
Curtis Financial Planning