Top college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Cambridge, MD
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.
Saving for college often starts when you want to make the most of tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans or UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) accounts. A common mistake is not aligning the savings strategy with your family's overall financial and estate plans, especially in states like Maryland that have both estate and inheritance taxes.
- Tax impact awareness. Confirm how the advisor navigates state-specific estate and inheritance taxes when planning your college savings.
- Account selection guidance. Ask why they recommend 529s versus UTMA accounts based on your goals and control preferences.
- Coordination with financial goals. See how they integrate college savings with other priorities like retirement or estate planning.
- Flexible withdrawal planning. Inquire about strategies for using funds if your child receives scholarships or decides not to attend college.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Charles P
Series 63, Series 65
Easton, MD
Merrill
Charles Pritchett specializes in college savings strategies including 529 and UTMA accounts, with 36 years of experience and a focus on integrating education funding with retirement and family goals. Based in Easton, MD, he operates within Merrill's large-firm environment, offering a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies, and serves mid-career professionals and high earners seeking transparent, personalized financial planning.
Experience: 37 years
Avg account: $860,085
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James M
Series 66
Easton, MD
Charles Schwab
James Mc Cleery specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, with expertise in multi-state taxation, which is crucial for Maryland residents managing estate and inheritance tax implications. Operating from Charles Schwab, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients, he offers a 0.80% annual AUM fee and integrates multi-asset portfolios with both discretionary and non-discretionary advisory services, distinguishing him from smaller local advisors.
Experience: 9 years
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Joseph W
Series 63, Series 65
Tilghman, MD
Empower Advisory Group
Joseph Walsh offers expertise in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 30 years of experience and Series 63 and 65 licenses. Operating from Tilghman, MD with Empower Advisory Group, he provides flat-fee and monthly subscription options, benefiting clients seeking coordinated retirement and college savings planning through a large firm with integrated investment methodologies.
Experience: 30 years
Avg account: $565,063
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Blake W
Series 63, Series 65
Cambridge, MD
LPL Financial
Blake Whitten specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 10 years of experience and credentials like Series 63 and 65 licenses. Operating through LPL Financial, a large firm offering flat-fee planning and in-house research, he serves diverse clients including business owners, which may provide broader financial planning insights compared to smaller firms.
Experience: 11 years
Avg account: $399,489
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