Frequently Asked Questions

The fees are based on the actual time involved in meeting with you in person or over the phone, researching and analyzing your current situation, and providing specific recommendations and implementation assistance (if appropriate). Hourly rates are $240 per hour for services rendered by a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

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

In addition, Clarus Financial Planning, Inc. is a 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 II?” This document contains important information about the planner’s qualifications, fiduciary duties, history of any past violations, etc.  We would be happy to email you a copy of our ADV Part II. Please contact us to request your copy, or download and read our ADV Part II.

As a member of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, Liane took a Fiduciary Oath to act in good faith and in the best interests of our clients.  Many advisors are not held to a fiduciary standard and are only required to make sure a recommended investment is “suitable” rather than in your best interests.

We believe in the following fundamental principals 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 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 can, or that any of the money or mutual fund managers that we recommend, will 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.
• 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, will increase the likelihood that clients will achieve their long-term financial objectives.

Yes. Some firms have income levels and/or net worth minimums but, at Clarus Financial Planning, we realize that everyone has financial needs. We are proud to work with people from all income levels, and all walks of life.  Call today and let’s get started.

Yes. People who need more sophisticated financial planning or advice will find our services appealing and beneficial. If you are looking for a professional review or a second opinion to ensure you are on track, we can provide that, too.

Corporate education is key in building employee participation. We can help your people understand the benefits of your programs. Please call to discuss your specific needs. We can custom-build an educational program for your company.

Yes. Section 212 of the Internal Revenue Code permits an itemized deduction for tax and/or investment advice in the miscellaneous section of Schedule A. It is subject to a 2% floor of the adjusted gross income on a personal tax return.

Because financial planning is a process, not an event, we offer ongoing services, periodic reviews and day-to-day consultation as requested and/or needed.

The first step is an initial inquiry from you. Call (630) 492-1244 or e-mail us at Info@ClarusPlans.com. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation Introductory Appointment.