CFP®-certified, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Champaign, IL
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 how to balance saving with other financial goals. A common mistake is focusing only on investment returns without considering how college savings fit into your overall financial picture.
- Account type guidance. Confirm they explain differences between 529 plans and UTMA accounts, including tax benefits and control over funds.
- Contribution strategy. Ask how they recommend timing and amount of contributions to maximize growth and minimize impact on financial aid.
- Coordination with financial aid. Ensure they consider how savings affect eligibility for scholarships and aid, not just the amount saved.
- Education cost projections. Look for advisors who help estimate future college costs realistically, factoring in inflation and your child's plans.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Xinhong L
CFP®, Series 66
Champaign, IL
Financial Planning, Asset Management
Xinhong Liu offers expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, backed by nine years of experience and CFP® certification in Champaign, IL. Operating independently with a 1.5% AUM fee and $150 hourly planning rate, Liu's firm emphasizes personalized financial planning and diversified investment strategies, also supporting retirement and estate planning needs.
Experience: 9 years
Avg account: $525,312
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Mark T
CFP®, Series 63, Series 66
Champaign, IL
Edward Jones
Mark Thies brings 26 years of experience and CFP® certification to college savings planning in Champaign, IL, with expertise in 529 plans and UTMA accounts. Working at Edward Jones, a large firm with over $1 trillion in assets, he offers a comprehensive approach including retirement and estate planning, supported by a program fee up to 1.35% annually, distinguishing him from advisors with narrower focuses or smaller firms.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Paul L
CFP®, Series 63
Champaign, IL
Belpointe Asset Management LLC
Paul Lewis brings 43 years of experience and CFP® certification to college savings planning in Champaign, IL, with expertise in 529 plans and UTMA accounts. His firm, Belpointe Asset Management LLC, offers customized portfolios using active and passive strategies, and negotiable flat fees, distinguishing him from others by combining deep tax planning knowledge and a broad client base including executives and business owners.
Experience: 44 years
Avg account: $705,312
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