Top financial advisors working with high-net-worth individuals and widows and widowers in California
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.
Losing a spouse often means facing sudden financial decisions while managing grief. You need an advisor who understands the unique challenges widows and widowers face, not just general wealth management.
- Income and benefit timing. Ask how they help coordinate survivor benefits, pensions, and Social Security to maximize your income without penalties.
- Estate and tax adjustments. Confirm they review your estate plan and tax situation to reflect your new status and avoid costly mistakes.
- Emotional sensitivity. Look for advisors who recognize the emotional impact of loss and can guide you patiently through complex financial choices.
- Asset reallocation. Discuss how they approach adjusting your investment strategy to match your changed risk tolerance and goals.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Catherine C
CFP®
Oakland, CA
Curtis Financial Planning
Catherine Curtis specializes in serving high-net-worth widows and widowers in California, offering tailored financial planning with 13 years of experience and CFP® certification. Her independent firm in Oakland uses a strategic asset allocation approach and provides flat-fee options for complex situations, distinguishing her from others by focusing on women’s financial needs and maintaining fiduciary standards.
Experience: 13 years
Avg account: $2,151,316
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Michal S
CFP®
San Francisco, CA
Skylark Wealth, LLC
Michal Skowronski specializes in serving high-net-worth widows and widowers in California, offering expertise in inherited wealth and general retirement planning. As a CFP®-certified founder of Skylark Wealth, LLC in San Francisco, he provides a flat-fee structure with a fixed initial payment and hourly financial planning rates. His independent approach and experience as a Gen X professional differentiate him by combining fiduciary-level service with technology-driven solutions tailored to complex financial transitions after loss.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $1,795,806
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Elliott A
CFP®
Madison, WI
Kindness Financial Planning
Elliott Appel specializes in supporting high-net-worth widows and widowers by focusing on tax planning, estate reviews, and customized investment portfolios to address income needs and risk tolerance changes after loss. With 13 years of experience, CFP® certification, and a personal connection to caregiving challenges, he offers empathetic guidance and organizes financial priorities, differentiating him from others by combining professional expertise with a compassionate approach.
Experience: 14 years
Avg account: $1,616,579
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