Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in DeLand, FL
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 your child's education expenses, choosing the right college savings plan can make a big difference in how much you save and how those savings grow. Without focused guidance, it's easy to overlook how different account types and tax implications affect your long-term goals. Large-firm advisors often have access to a broad range of resources and tools that can support complex planning needs.
- Account type expertise. Confirm whether they can explain the differences between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, and other savings vehicles, including tax benefits and restrictions.
- Federal tax focus. Since Florida has no state income tax, ask how they optimize your savings strategy around federal taxes and other state taxes like property and sales.
- Education cost projections. See if they incorporate realistic college cost inflation and timing to help you set achievable savings targets.
- Firm resources. Large firms may offer specialized support and investment options; ask how these resources might benefit your college savings plan.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Andrew F
Series 66
Port Orange, FL
Edward Jones
Andrew Foster specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging Edward Jones' extensive resources to support complex education funding strategies in the DeLand area. With six years of experience and a Series 66 designation, he offers a comprehensive approach that includes estate and retirement planning, charging up to 1.35% annually, which may suit clients seeking integrated wealth management from a large firm.
Experience: 6 years
Avg account: $246,728
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John W
Series 63, Series 65, Series 66
Deland, FL
LPL Financial
John Walker II specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging 33 years of experience and resources from LPL Financial, a large firm with in-house research and diverse investment solutions. His flat-fee structure and background as a founder and retired professional may offer a more personalized approach compared to other advisors in DeLand, FL.
Experience: 34 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Scott W
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Daytona Beach, FL
J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc.
Scott Weidman specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging 25 years of experience and CFP® certification to navigate tax implications and education cost projections. Based in nearby Daytona Beach, he offers flat-fee planning through J.W. Cole Advisors, a large firm with a national network and both discretionary and non-discretionary investment options, distinguishing him from other local advisors.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $255,702
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Donna H
Series 63, Series 66
Deland, FL
Merrill
Donna Higbee offers expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by Merrill's large-firm resources in DeLand, FL. With 29 years of experience, a CFP® designation, and a background in wealth management and retirement planning, she also specializes in serving women professionals and executives, providing a comprehensive approach beyond just education funding.
Experience: 29 years
Avg account: $860,085
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James P
Series 63, Series 66
Ormond Beach, FL
Charles Schwab
James Pennington's expertise in college savings plans, including 529s and UTMA accounts, is supported by his 17 years of experience and Series 63 and 66 credentials. Based in Ormond Beach, FL, he works with Charles Schwab, a large firm offering multi-asset model portfolios and a 0.80% annual AUM fee, which may provide extensive resources for complex education savings strategies.
Experience: 18 years
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