Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Hays, KS
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 the specific rules and benefits of 529 plans and UTMA accounts. Without that focus, you might miss opportunities to maximize tax advantages or coordinate savings with financial aid strategies. Large-firm advisors often have access to a broad range of resources and specialists, which can support complex college savings needs.
- Plan selection expertise. Confirm how they choose between 529 plans and UTMA accounts based on your family's goals and state tax considerations.
- Coordination with financial aid. Ask how they help balance savings to avoid reducing potential aid eligibility.
- Long-term flexibility. Inquire about strategies for adapting your college savings plan if your child's education path changes.
- Experience with rural planning. Since agricultural land and family business succession are common in rural areas, see if they integrate these factors into your college savings approach.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Joseph H
Series 63, Series 65, Series 66
Hays, KS
Empower Advisory Group
Joseph Hillebrand's 19 years of experience and expertise in college savings, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, make him well-suited for managing education funding in Hays, KS. His affiliation with Empower Advisory Group, a large firm offering flat-fee structures and integrated financial planning tied to employer-sponsored retirement plans, distinguishes him by combining college savings with broader retirement and income strategies.
Experience: 19 years
Avg account: $565,063
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Alex L
Series 66
Russell, KS
Edward Jones
Alex Lofland at Edward Jones is equipped to assist with college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging the firm's extensive resources and tax-efficient strategies. With a Series 66 designation, two years of advisory experience, and a background at UMB Bank, he also specializes in multi-generational wealth transfer and serves educators, offering a tailored approach for intergenerational families near Hays, KS.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Derek G
CFP®, Series 63
Hays, KS
LPL Financial
Derek Gerstner's 21 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to handle college savings strategies involving 529 plans and UTMA accounts, especially within a large firm like LPL Financial that offers extensive research and customizable investment solutions. His flat-fee structure and background in tax preparation provide a practical approach to coordinating savings with financial aid and adapting plans for changing educational paths, distinguishing him from other advisors in Hays, KS.
Experience: 21 years
Avg account: $399,489
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