FAQ for Widows/Widowers

Q: What makes your professional experience unique?

Co-founder and co-owner Linda Leitz has a PhD in Personal Financial Planning and has been a financial professional since 1979. She has served as Chair of the National Association of Personal Advisors and worked on a national level with the CFP Board of Standards as a volunteer. The approach of everyone in the firm is to integrate the important aspects of your financial life as well as the personal issues that are unique to you.

Q: What are the important financial issues I need to address if my spouse has recently passed on?

The biggest mistake that most individuals make after the death of a spouse is making big decisions too quickly. There are some things that need immediate attention, and we can help you handle those matters. The best thing to do next is often to just work through the grief and process the huge life change. We help with that, too, while helping you arrange things so you know where money is coming from to meet your basic needs.

Q: Why should I work with you instead of all the financial advisors that call?

We serve as fiduciaries, keeping your best interest as the guiding principle of what we recommend. Too often buying a new financial product or making a big change in your situation right after losing a spouse is a decision that’s regretted later. We don’t sell products. We provide advice and then work with you to implement advice that you agree meets your needs.

Q: Can you help me with the estate attorney and processing life insurance?

Absolutely. We can attend appointments you have with other professionals and help you with necessary paperwork to settle your spouse’s estate.

Q: I don’t understand finances. Can I just turn everything over to you?

We can help you with all your financial concerns and we believe it’s important to have you involved in the process. We explain the choices you have and make recommendations about them. But we never take action without your consent. Part of our role is to help explain the intricacies of financial matters. But you don’t have to surrender your ability to make choices in order to have good professional help. In fact, we believe that it’s better for you if you don’t give up control, to us or anyone.

Q: How do I start working with you?

We’ll set up a free get acquainted call to discuss your needs and some specifics of how we can help.