Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Lansing, MI
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 this expertise, you might miss out on tax advantages or choose the wrong savings vehicle for your family's needs. Large-firm advisors often have access to extensive resources and a team approach, which can provide broader support for your college savings strategy.
- Plan type guidance. Confirm how they help you choose between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, or other options based on your goals and state tax implications.
- Investment options. Ask about the range of investment choices within the college savings plans and how they align with your risk tolerance and timeline.
- Coordination with other goals. See how they integrate college savings with your overall financial plan, including pensions or other retirement considerations common in Michigan's auto industry.
- Fee structure clarity. Understand how their large-firm setup affects fees and whether that impacts your savings growth over time.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Joni P
CFP®, Series 66
Dewitt, MI
Edward Jones
Joni Preston specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, backed by 12 years of experience at Edward Jones, a large full-service wealth management firm. Her CFP® certification and expertise in retirement income and ESG investing complement her ability to integrate college savings with broader financial goals, while her fee structure includes an AUM-based program fee up to 1.35% annually.
Experience: 12 years
Avg account: $246,728
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David A
Series 66
East Lansing, MI
Merrill
David Anderson specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging Merrill's large-firm resources to offer tailored education planning and tax minimization strategies. With five years of experience and a focus on married couples and parents, he integrates retirement income and wealth management, charging a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies under $2 million, distinguishing him from other advisors in East Lansing.
Experience: 5 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Mark G
Series 63, Series 66
East Lansing, MI
LPL Financial
Mark Garrod's 36 years of experience and expertise in college savings plans, including 529s and UTMA accounts, position him well to guide families in Lansing through complex education funding options. Affiliated with LPL Financial, a large firm offering extensive investment solutions and a flat-fee structure, he also brings insights from his background as a founder and retired professional, which may appeal to clients seeking seasoned guidance with transparent fees.
Experience: 37 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Jacob W
Series 63, Series 65, Series 66
Lansing, MI
Empower Advisory Group
Jacob Williams offers expertise in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by 11 years of experience and Series 63, 65, and 66 licenses. Working with Empower Advisory Group, a large firm focused on employer-sponsored retirement plans, he provides flat-fee and monthly subscription options, which may appeal to clients seeking transparent fees and integrated financial planning in Lansing, MI.
Experience: 12 years
Avg account: $565,063
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