Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Illinois
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.
If you're planning for your child's education or future expenses, setting up college savings accounts like 529 plans or UTMA accounts can be a key step. Without careful planning, you might miss out on the best ways to balance growth potential with tax advantages.
- Account type suitability. Ask which college savings vehicles fit your family's financial situation and goals, as each has different tax and withdrawal rules.
- Investment options within plans. Confirm how the advisor selects and manages investments inside 529 or UTMA accounts to align with your timeline and risk comfort.
- Impact on financial aid. Understand how these accounts affect eligibility for need-based aid, since some account types count differently in calculations.
- Coordination with overall finances. Large-firm advisors often integrate college savings with your broader financial plan, so ask how they balance education funding with other priorities.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Michael H
Series 63, Series 65
Downers Grove, IL
LPL Financial
Michael Hankes specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by 40 years of industry experience and credentials including Series 63 and 65. Operating from LPL Financial, a large firm, he offers flat-fee and hourly financial planning services, integrating education funding with broader financial strategies, which may appeal to clients seeking seasoned guidance with flexible fee options in Illinois.
Experience: 40 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Kenneth Z
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Chicago, IL
Schwab Wealth Advisory
Kenneth Zimmer's 25 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to guide Illinois families through college savings options like 529 plans and UTMA accounts, balancing tax considerations and investment choices. At Charles Schwab, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients, he offers a 0.80% AUM fee structure and integrates education funding within broader wealth management strategies, distinguishing him from advisors with narrower focuses or smaller firms.
Experience: 25 years
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Brian S
Series 66
Schaumburg, IL
Fidelity
Brian Segura specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, making him well-suited for families in Illinois planning for education expenses. With seven years of experience and a Series 66 designation, he works at Fidelity, a large firm known for integrating college savings with broader financial strategies, and focuses on serving parents, offering a comprehensive approach compared to other advisors.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $234,793
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Brett S
Series 66
Frankfort, IL
Edward Jones
Brett Schaibley specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by a decade of experience and a Series 66 license. Operating within Edward Jones, a large firm with over four million clients, he offers integrated wealth management and retirement planning, charging up to 1.35% annually, which may suit those seeking comprehensive financial coordination in Illinois.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Sarah G
Series 66
Springfield, IL
Merrill
Sarah Goleman specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging her 8 years of experience at Merrill, a large firm in Springfield, Illinois. She integrates ESG and values-based investing with wealth management, offering a unique blend of socially responsible strategies alongside traditional financial planning, which distinguishes her from other advisors in the region.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $860,085
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