Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our services, fees, and what to expect when working with Embolden Financial Planning LLC.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. Embolden Financial Planning LLC offers a free, no-obligation introductory meeting. It's a chance to ask questions, share your goals, and learn more about the process. You're welcome to follow up with questions via email or even schedule another introductory call. Click here to schedule.
Why don't you have client testimonials?
As a registered investment advisor in Washington, Oregon, and California, Embolden Financial Planning LLC, and other firms, cannot legally publish client testimonials. These states view testimonials in advertisements as potentially deceptive and misleading about the client experience and risks of investing.
Embolden Financial Planning LLC focuses on fact-based fiduciary advice, transparent communication, and a simple hourly fee structure. Many clients come through referrals from family and friends who share their experience. That kind of word-of-mouth trust is something Embolden Financial Planning LLC is proud of. The hope is that you’ll be so pleased with your financial planning experience that you’ll want to share it with others, too.
Can I speak to existing clients about their experience?
As much as Embolden Financial Planning LLC would like to put you in contact with existing clients to learn about their experience, out of respect for their privacy, it is not something that is offered.
What can I expect if I'm ready to become a client?
Once you decide to move forward, you’ll be invited to share your contact information and schedule the first meeting in the financial goal planning process to receive clear next steps, depending on the scope of work.
How often will we meet?
The number of meetings depends on your goals and needs. A financial goal plan involves four meetings. Ongoing review meetings are recommended at least annually, though they can happen more often. For hourly advice or limited-scope work, meeting frequency is flexible.
What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is legally and ethically obligated to act in the best interest of their clients. You will find a Fiduciary Statement in the Financial Planning Agreement that states Embolden Financial Planning LLC "owes the client a fiduciary duty to put the Clientʼs interest first which includes, but is not limited to, a duty of care, loyalty, obedience, and utmost good faith."
What is your investment philosophy?
Embolden Financial Planning LLC focuses on low-cost, diversified, index-based ETFs and mutual funds. In certain cases, actively managed funds may be recommended. Sustainable investing options are available for clients interested in socially responsible strategies.
Where are my assets held?
Embolden Financial Planning LLC does not take custody of client assets. You maintain control and can hold your investments at the institution of your choice. If you need help selecting a custodian, personalized recommendations will be provided.
Can I work with you if I'm not in Seattle?
Absolutely. Embolden Financial Planning LLC is a fully virtual firm and works with clients in Seattle, throughout Washington, Oregon, California, and nationwide.
Why is your firm virtual?
Virtual financial planning is convenient, flexible, and environmentally friendly. It allows clients to meet from the comfort of their home or office. All meetings are hosted via Zoom.
How do you receive payment?
Embolden Financial Planning LLC charges an hourly rate using a simple, transparent fee structure with no commissions or asset management fees. Invoices are sent electronically, and payments are processed securely through AdvicePay.
Do you earn commissions or sell products?
No. Embolden Financial Planning LLC is fee-only and does not sell any investment or insurance products. There are no commissions, only transparent, hourly advice.
What financial planning software do you use?
RightCapital is the core financial planning tool. It supports goal planning, tax strategy, retirement projections, Social Security analysis, budgeting, education planning, and more. It also offers secure account aggregation and document sharing.
Is my personal information secure?
Yes. Embolden Financial Planning LLC uses secure technology providers to safeguard your personal and financial information. Learn more about data protection here.
What does a financial goal plan look like?
Click here to view a sample financial goal plan. This example outlines many of the questions a plan can help you answer. While each plan is unique, this sample gives a clear idea of what to expect.
What is advice-only financial planning?
Advice-only financial planning means you receive personalized advice with no product sales, no commissions, and no requirement to move your assets.
Is Tim Melia a financial advisor?
Tim Melia is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional. While "financial advisor" and "financial planner" are often used interchangeably, Tim emphasizes his role as a fiduciary planner. Learn more here.
Where have you been quoted in the media?
Tim Melia and Embolden Financial Planning LLC have been featured in NerdWallet, MarketWatch, CNBC, The Seattle Times, Yahoo! Finance, and others. Click here for more detail.
What is a review meeting?
A review meeting is a check-in to revisit your goals, analyze your portfolio, and make any necessary updates. It’s a way to keep the plan on track and get answers to your questions.
Still have a question?
Email Tim at tim.melia@emboldenfp.com or submit a question here.
How do we start?
Be Emboldened.
Take the next step.