Large-firm, social Security optimization financial advisors in Madison, WI
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 approaching retirement and want to maximize your Social Security benefits, you need an advisor who understands the complex rules and timing involved. A common mistake is claiming benefits too early or in the wrong sequence, which can reduce your lifetime income.
- Benefit timing strategies. Look for advisors who explain how delaying or coordinating benefits affects your monthly payments.
- Government pension knowledge. Since Wisconsin has strong public pensions, ask how they integrate these with Social Security to avoid penalties.
- Spousal and survivor benefits. Confirm they consider all available options for you and your spouse to optimize household income.
- Coordination with other income. Ensure they factor in your other retirement income sources to minimize taxes and maximize benefits.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Joseph S
Series 66
Madison, WI
Empower Advisory Group
Joseph Schultz specializes in Social Security optimization within a large firm setting in Madison, WI, offering flat-fee and monthly subscription pricing that can suit various client needs. His nine years of experience and background with firms like UBS complement Empower Advisory Group's integrated approach to retirement planning and investment management, focusing on long-term portfolio returns and savings rates, which may distinguish him from other advisors in the area.
Experience: 9 years
Avg account: $565,063
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James H
CFP®, Series 65
Middleton, WI
Savant Wealth Management
James Haygood specializes in Social Security optimization and retirement income strategy, making him well-suited to help clients in Madison, WI maximize their benefits. Working at Savant Wealth Management, a large firm with a flat-fee option, he serves diverse clients using evidence-based investment models, which distinguishes him from advisors focused solely on individual wealth management.
Experience: 15 years
Avg account: $2,108,203
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Thomas J
Series 66
Madison, WI
Equitable Advisors
Thomas Johnson specializes in Social Security optimization and retirement income strategy, making him well-suited for clients in Madison, WI approaching retirement. Working with Equitable Advisors, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients, he offers a hybrid advisory and brokerage model with flexible fee structures ranging from 0.20% to 2.50% AUM fees and hourly planning fees, differentiating him through tailored services and access to multiple asset management programs.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $570,841
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Lisa M
Series 66
Madison, WI
Ameriprise
Lisa Murphy specializes in Social Security optimization and retirement income strategies, making her well-suited for clients in Madison, WI approaching retirement. With 23 years of experience at Ameriprise, a large firm offering tax-efficient retirement planning and a 0.15% AUM fee, she provides customized reports supported by centralized research and modeling, distinguishing her from other advisors.
Experience: 24 years
Avg account: $471,167
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Crystal C
Series 63, Series 65
Madison, WI
Merrill
Crystal Carlson specializes in Social Security optimization within a large firm setting in Madison, WI, leveraging 17 years of industry experience and multiple certifications including CFP and CPWA. She integrates retirement income strategies with ESG investing and offers a consultative, goals-based approach, distinguishing her through comprehensive planning that includes executive compensation and tax minimization.
Experience: 18 years
Avg account: $860,085
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