Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

Curtis Financial Planning is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). As an RIA, I have a legal duty to act in your best interest at all times. I also adhere to transparent fee structures and rigorous compliance requirements.

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.

I have particular expertise in inheritance planning, tax analysis, career transitions, home and rental real estate purchases, self-employed business planning, and charitable giving strategies. Whether you’re dealing with sudden wealth, planning for retirement, or managing the financial aspects of major life changes, I provide specialized guidance tailored to your unique situation.

My fee is inclusive of ongoing financial planning, financial advice, and investment management. The minimum annual fee is $10,000. Assets under our responsibility will be charged a management fee based on the following tiered schedule:

• First $1,000,000: 1.00% annually
• Between $1,000,001 and $3,000,000: 0.80% annually
• Between $3,000,001 and $6,000,000: 0.65% annually
• Above $6,000,000: 0.45% annually

If your situation is unusually complex, there may also be a flat fee charged for services. In all cases, no client pays less than $10,000 a year for my comprehensive financial planning and investment management services.

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.

No. I work with clients who are looking for a long-term, ongoing relationship—not just a one-time engagement. I meet with my clients regularly and stay closely involved in their financial lives, so that your strategy evolves as your life does.

After the first six months of working together, where we will meet several times to get your financial plan and investments set up, we meet twice a year—one meeting is a comprehensive review of your financial plan and the second is a tax planning meeting. Additional meetings are scheduled as needed for financial issues that come up during the year. I’m also available for check-ins and questions throughout the year via phone or email.

Yes—most of my meetings are held via Zoom, which allows us to meet more frequently and flexibly around your schedule. This virtual model creates strong relationships and enables responsive communication, no matter where you are. Many of my clients appreciate being able to connect from their home or office without travel time.

The first step is a complimentary 30-minute introductory call where we’ll discuss your situation, goals, and whether we’re a good fit to work together. If we decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a comprehensive planning meeting to dive deep into your financial picture and begin crafting your personalized strategy.