Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often. Don’t see yours? Email us at hello@ellisretirement.com.
- How do you get paid, and what do you charge?
- What’s included in the fee?
- Do you have a minimum?
- Do you offer one-time plans or hourly advice?
- Where are my assets held?
- Are you a fiduciary?
- What happens on the first call?
- Do I have to move my accounts before we meet?
How do you get paid, and what do you charge?
We’re paid a small percentage of the investments we manage on your behalf. That one fee covers all of our financial planning and investment management. There’s no separate charge for your financial plan or for our meetings.
| ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT | ANNUAL FEE |
|---|---|
| First $500,000 | 1.35% |
| $500,001 to $1,000,000 | 1.00% |
| $1,000,001 to $3,000,000 | 0.90% |
| Over $3,000,000 | 0.75% |
Fees are tiered, so each rate applies only to the assets within that range. Example: a $1,000,000 household pays $11,750 per year (about 1.18%).
What’s included in the fee?
Everything we do for you. That includes:
- Retirement income planning: how much you can pay yourself, and from which accounts
- Social Security timing and Medicare options
- Tax planning, including whether Roth conversions make sense now and later
- Investment management
- High-level estate planning goals and how they fit into the plan
- At least two review meetings each year to update the plan as your life changes
Do you have a minimum?
Yes. Because of the complexity and detail of the work we do, we work with households that have at least $500,000 in investable assets, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, brokerage accounts, and cash savings. Your home doesn’t count toward the minimum.
Do you offer one-time plans or hourly advice?
We don’t. We believe financial and retirement planning is an ongoing process. The right decision this year may need to change next year as tax laws, markets, and your life change, so we only work with clients on an ongoing basis.
If you are looking for those specific services, we might be able to point you in the right direction. Just email us at hello@ellisretirement.com.
Where are my assets held?
Your accounts are held in your name at LPL Financial. You’ll receive statements directly from LPL and can view your accounts online anytime.
Are you a fiduciary?
Yes. When we provide advice in our advisory relationships, we act as a fiduciary, which means we’re required to put your interests first.
What happens on the first call?
It’s a relaxed 30-minute Zoom conversation. We’ll learn about your situation and what you’d like help with, explain how we work, and see whether it makes sense to take a next step. No prep required and no pressure.
Do I have to move my accounts before we meet?
No. Nothing changes with your accounts unless you decide to work with us. If you do, we’ll walk you through every step.
Ready to see if we’re a good fit?