Whatever your unique situation, everyone needs a periodic assessment of where they are on the road to meeting their financial goals. Now that you're facing the prospects of retirement, you're likely wondering where to start. That’s why we start with an in-depth review of your current financial situation. Then, we can set about achieving (or continue working toward) your financial goals. By focusing on cash flow, investments, taxes, pensions and retirement plans, estate planning, insurance issues, savings opportunities and other general financial matters, we design a customized financial plan for you. Finally, to achieve the intended results, you must implement and monitor your plan.

Because we are fee-only financial planners, all conflicts of interest regarding compensation are removed. We do not accept sales commissions; we work solely for our clients. We do not sell financial products such as investments and insurance, so there are no third-party relationships or outside influences to color our thinking and financial recommendations.

In addition, Growing Fortunes is part of CGN Advisors, LLC, a federally Registered Investment Advisor (RIA); as such, we must comply with a host of regulations designed to protect the consumer. One important question you should always ask when considering a financial planner’s services: ”May I please have a copy of your ADV Part 2a and 2b?” These documents contain important information about the planner’s qualifications, fiduciary duties, history of any past violations, etc, as well as information about the firm. We would be happy to provide a copy of our ADV Part 2a and 2b. Please contact us to request your copy.

While we do not sell financial products, we will offer specific recommendations and opinions regarding the purchase of the various financial products that may be appropriate for you. For instance, if you need an insurance policy or a new mortgage, want to invest into a portfolio of mutual funds, or find an estate planning attorney or tax professional, we can direct you to the resources you need and/or help you obtain these products and services. If appropriate, we can also help you implement your plan and set up your accounts.

As part of your plan heading towards retirement, we address additional specific needs such as cash management, tax efficient savings and withdrawals, investment analysis and insurance reviews, depending on what you need now. However, your needs will change over time and can be addressed by enrolling in our ongoing plan renewals. Change is constant, which is why financial planning is a process, not an event.

Cheryl resides and spends most of her time in Schaumburg, IL. Family in Phoenix (and, let’s face it, the weather) means that Cheryl travels to Arizona frequently, and uses that opportunity to meet with Arizona clients in person. And with the convenience of online meetings, we can stay in touch when you need assistance.

We can have sessions in person or remotely. We hold remote sessions over the phone. We are notice-filed in Illinois and Arizona; please inquire when you call or email if you live outside of these states.

Yes. We have many clients who have been good savers. Now, they are looking at the changing paradigm of retirement and finding that it's a whole different landscape requiring a new understanding of income planning, tax strategy and investment management. We can help you effectively increase your understanding of how finances are different as you approach and enter your retirement years. If you've always "done your own planning," we can help you approach this new phase and make the right choices with confidence.

Your initial plan fee will be based on the complexity of your financial situation and will be determined at our Get Acquainted meeting. Fees reflect the value of in-depth, collaborative, personalized service. Here are some characteristics we consider when determining your fee:

• Number and types of accounts
• Level of detail needed for retirement distribution/withdrawal planning
• Complexity of stock options
• Management of taxable investment capital gains over multiple tax years
• Inheritance
• Need for coordination with insurance, tax, and estate planning professionals
• Annuities in the portfolio, especially those with guaranteed benefit options
• Rental property
• Pension strategy
• Business interests
• Amount of assistance needed for implementation

As financial planners and investment consultants, we believe in the following fundamental principles with regard to designing an investment portfolio and making specific recommendations: The purpose of a client’s investment portfolio is to fund current and/or future financial objectives. The design of the portfolio must take into account the client’s financial objectives, tolerance for risk, needs for current income or liquidity, and special considerations such as income and estate taxes. The appropriate allocation of investment assets for your goals and risk tolerance is the most important component in developing an investment portfolio. We believe that having a diversified, well-balanced portfolio, following long-term, buy-and-hold strategies, and having patience increases the likelihood of achieving your long-term financial objectives.

Wherever possible, we consider the tax impact of your investments and determine where specific types of assets (i.e., stocks vs. bonds) should be held within your overall portfolio. In investment terms, this results in a portfolio primarily consisting of low-cost index mutual funds or exchange traded funds. The important thing to remember is that no one can predict the future. It is difference of opinion that makes a market. Investment and economic ”experts” provided with the same information often come to different conclusions. We do not suggest that we, or any of the money or mutual fund managers that we recommend, can make the correct decision every time. We do believe, however, that studying the historic trends and relationships of investment classes and the philosophies and approaches of successful investment managers can provide valuable insight.