Seasoned financial advisors working with clients approaching retirement in Bellingham, WA
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.
If you're nearing retirement, you likely face decisions about when to start Social Security, how to draw down savings, and how to manage taxes on your investments. Without focused experience, advisors might overlook the unique tax landscape in Washington, including its capital gains tax, leading to costly mistakes.
Seasoned advisors bring decades of experience navigating these challenges, helping you balance income needs with tax efficiency.
- Tax-aware withdrawal strategies. Look for advisors who consider Washington's capital gains tax alongside federal taxes when planning your income streams.
- Social Security timing. Ask how they evaluate the best age to claim benefits based on your full financial picture.
- Long-term income planning. Confirm they model your spending, healthcare costs, and inflation to sustain your retirement lifestyle.
- Experience with local tax nuances. Ensure they understand Washington's tax rules beyond the absence of state income tax, including property and sales taxes.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Scott S
Series 63, Series 65
Bellingham, WA
TIAA-CREF
Scott Steele's 31 years of experience and focus on clients approaching retirement in Bellingham, WA, equip him to address complex retirement planning needs, including tax-aware withdrawal strategies relevant to Washington's unique tax environment. Affiliated with TIAA-CREF, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients, he offers a 0.30% AUM fee structure and specializes in retirement plans for business owners and educators, providing tailored guidance beyond basic retirement advice.
Experience: 32 years
Avg account: $523,144
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Taunya S
Series 66
Anacortes, WA
RBC Capital Markets
Taunya Sell's 24 years of experience and Series 66 credential equip her to assist clients approaching retirement in the Bellingham area with tax-aware withdrawal strategies and long-term income planning. Affiliated with RBC Capital Markets, a large firm offering flat-fee options and customized portfolio management, she also brings insights from her roles on local finance committees, distinguishing her through a blend of seasoned expertise and community involvement.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $1,017,425
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Richard S
CFP®, PFS™, Series 63
Bellingham, WA
Cetera
Richard Steele's 26 years of experience and CFP® and PFS™ credentials equip him to address the complex tax and retirement planning needs of clients approaching retirement in Bellingham, including those navigating Washington's unique tax environment. Affiliated with Cetera, a large firm offering diverse portfolio management and fiduciary solutions, he provides flat-fee and hourly consulting options, serving a broad client base including high earners and business owners.
Experience: 27 years
Avg account: $306,089
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Nicola B
Series 66
Bellingham, WA
UBS Financial Services
Nicola Barber's 24 years of experience and focus on general retirement planning and cash flow budgeting equip her to address the complex decisions faced by those approaching retirement in Bellingham, including tax-aware withdrawal strategies. Affiliated with UBS Financial Services, a large firm offering fee-based planning and institutional trading capabilities, she is well-suited for high-net-worth clients seeking tailored investment strategies.
Experience: 24 years
Avg account: $693,691
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Blayne B
Series 63, Series 65
Bellingham, WA
Ameriprise
Blayne Barnhart Jr. specializes in retirement income strategy and Social Security optimization, making him well-suited for clients approaching retirement in Bellingham, WA. With 39 years of experience at Ameriprise, a large firm known for tax-smart withdrawal strategies and algorithm-supported planning, he serves clients with significant investable assets and charges a 0.15% AUM fee, distinguishing him from advisors with smaller practices or different fee structures.
Experience: 39 years
Avg account: $471,167
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