Seasoned, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Alma, MI
The right financial advisor for you depends on how you weigh location, expertise, experience, the clients they typically serve, and how they work with you.
When you're planning for college expenses, you want an advisor who understands the specific rules and benefits of 529 plans and UTMA accounts. Without this focus, it's easy to overlook how these accounts impact your financial aid eligibility or tax situation.
- Account type guidance. Confirm how they help choose between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, or other savings vehicles based on your family's goals.
- Pension and retirement interplay. In areas with auto industry pensions, ask how they coordinate college savings with your overall retirement plan.
- Tax implications. Look for advisors who explain state tax benefits and federal tax considerations tied to college savings accounts.
- Experience matters. Seasoned advisors often anticipate changes in education costs and financial aid rules, helping you adjust your plan over time.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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John P
Series 63, Series 66
Alma, MI
LPL Financial
John Pobanz brings 21 years of experience and specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, making him well-equipped to navigate the complexities of education funding in Alma, MI. Affiliated with LPL Financial, a large firm offering flat-fee financial planning, he also supports business owners with retirement plans and tax-loss harvesting, providing a broad financial perspective beyond just college savings.
Experience: 21 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Steven B
ChFC®, Series 63, Series 66
Sanford, MI
John Hancock Personal Financial Services, LLC
Steven Benzing offers seasoned expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, backed by 22 years of industry experience and ChFC® credentials. His firm uses a technology-assisted model providing written financial plans with flat-fee and hourly pricing, allowing clients in Sanford, MI, to receive structured guidance while retaining control over implementation decisions.
Experience: 23 years
Avg account: $61,762
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Scott S
Series 63, Series 65
Ithaca, MI
J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc.
Scott Showers brings 25 years of experience and specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, making him well-equipped to navigate the complexities of education funding. Based in Ithaca, MI, he offers flat-fee financial planning through J.W. Cole Advisors, a large firm with over 400 advisers, providing access to diverse managed account solutions and personalized consulting services.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $255,702
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