Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Pleasanton, CA
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 preserving financial aid eligibility later. Without this insight, you might save in ways that reduce your chances for scholarships or grants. Large-firm advisors often have access to a broad range of resources and specialists, which can help you navigate complex college savings options.
- Account type guidance. Confirm they explain the differences between 529 plans, UTMA accounts, and other vehicles, including tax benefits and impact on financial aid.
- State tax considerations. Ask how they factor in California's tax environment and Proposition 13's property tax limits when recommending savings strategies.
- Investment options. Look for advisors who discuss how investment choices within college savings accounts can affect growth and risk over time.
- Coordination with overall planning. Ensure they consider how college savings fit with your broader financial goals, like retirement or estate planning.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Phillip H
Series 66
Pleasanton, CA
Wells Fargo Clearing
Phillip Hohn's expertise in college savings, combined with his experience at a large firm like Wells Fargo Clearing, equips him to navigate complex 529 and UTMA account strategies while considering California's tax environment. His focus on high-net-worth clients, flat-fee structure, and specialization in technology professionals and business owners distinguishes him from other advisors in Pleasanton, CA.
Experience: 19 years
Avg account: $475,575
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Michelle M
Series 66
Pleasanton, CA
Merrill
Michelle Massey specializes in college savings strategies within a large firm setting, offering expertise in 529 plans and UTMA accounts tailored to California's tax environment. With 24 years at Merrill and a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies under $2 million, she integrates wealth management and charitable giving, serving executives and business owners, which distinguishes her from other advisors in Pleasanton.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Kenneth L
Series 66
Pleasanton, CA
LPL Financial
Kenneth Lemas specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by 12 years of experience and a Series 66 designation at LPL Financial, a large firm with extensive resources. His flat-fee structure and background as a founder and retired professional distinguish him from others, offering personalized guidance within a broad investment and tax planning framework in Pleasanton, CA.
Experience: 12 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Mai L
Series 63, Series 65
Dublin, CA
Charles Schwab
Mai Liu at Charles Schwab is equipped to assist with college savings strategies, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, leveraging her 10 years of experience and expertise in multi-state taxation and private investments. Operating within a large firm, she serves high-net-worth clients with a 0.80% annual AUM fee, offering access to discretionary managed accounts and comprehensive financial planning beyond college savings.
Experience: 10 years
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William E
ChFC®, Series 63
Pleasanton, CA
Centaurus Financial, Inc.
William Evans specializes in college savings strategies within a large-firm setting, leveraging 24 years of experience and credentials like ChFC® and Series 63 to guide clients in Pleasanton, CA. His firm, Centaurus Financial, offers access to third-party money managers and combines fundamental and technical analysis, providing a broad resource base that complements his focus on income planning and Social Security optimization.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $213,989
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