Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Mount Vernon, IL
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 how to balance saving now with future financial aid impacts. Without this insight, you might save in ways that reduce your chances for scholarships or aid.
Large-firm advisors often have access to a broad range of resources and tools, which can help you navigate complex college savings options.
- Account type guidance. Confirm they explain differences between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, and other vehicles, including tax benefits and ownership implications.
- Financial aid impact. Ask how your savings strategy might affect eligibility for need-based aid and what steps they take to minimize negative effects.
- Investment options. Look for advisors who tailor investment choices to your child's age and your risk tolerance, not just default fund selections.
- Coordination with overall planning. Ensure they consider college savings alongside your retirement and other financial goals to avoid unintended trade-offs.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Scott W
Series 63, Series 66
Centralia, IL
Edward Jones
Scott Williams specializes in college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 12 years of experience at Edward Jones, a large firm with extensive resources. His expertise also covers retirement income and estate planning, offering a comprehensive approach that balances college funding with broader financial goals, while his fee structure includes an AUM-based program fee up to 1.35% annually.
Experience: 13 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Christopher K
Series 63, Series 65, Series 66
Centralia, IL
Centaurus Financial, Inc.
Christopher Krupp specializes in college savings strategies within a large firm setting, offering guidance on 529 plans and UTMA accounts while considering financial aid impacts. His firm provides access to third-party money managers and unified managed account programs, supporting tailored investment choices and comprehensive financial planning beyond just college savings, which may benefit clients seeking integrated retirement and asset allocation advice.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $213,989
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Douglas M
Series 63, Series 66
Salem, IL
LPL Financial
Douglas Malan's 22 years of experience and affiliation with LPL Financial, a large firm offering extensive investment solutions and in-house research, equip him to guide college savings strategies effectively. His flat-fee financial planning and expertise in tax-loss harvesting and retirement plans for business owners provide a comprehensive approach that balances college savings with broader financial goals, distinguishing him from other advisors in the Mount Vernon area.
Experience: 23 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Travis E
Series 63, Series 65
Centralia, IL
Money Concepts Capital Corp
Travis Etheridge specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, backed by 14 years of experience and Series 63 and 65 credentials. Operating from a large firm with $3.33 billion AUM, he offers tailored investment approaches and consulting fees negotiated per client, distinguishing him from others by combining broad firm resources with personalized service in Centralia, IL.
Experience: 14 years
Avg account: $237,847
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Mccabe S
Series 66
Mt. Vernon, IL
J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc.
Mccabe Strothmann specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by seven years of experience and a Series 66 designation at the large firm J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. Unlike some advisors, he offers flat-fee financial planning options and access to diverse managed account solutions, combining discretionary and non-discretionary investment approaches to tailor strategies for clients in Mount Vernon, IL.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $255,702
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