Large-firm, planning for children with special needs 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 have a child with special needs, planning for their lifelong care and financial security becomes a priority. Without focused guidance, you might overlook critical benefits or legal protections that can affect your child's future.
- Government benefits navigation. Confirm how the advisor helps you understand and preserve eligibility for programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income.
- Special needs trusts. Ask about their experience setting up trusts that protect your child's assets without jeopardizing benefits.
- Long-term care planning. Look for advisors who incorporate housing, healthcare, and support services into your financial plan.
- Coordination with professionals. Ensure they work alongside attorneys and therapists familiar with special needs to create a comprehensive strategy.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Patrick C
Series 63, Series 65
Walnut Creek, CA
Merrill
Patrick Cronin's extensive 41 years of experience and specialization in planning for children with special needs make him well-equipped to address complex financial needs in Pleasanton, CA. As a Senior Vice President at Merrill, a large firm, he offers personalized wealth management and retirement income strategies, serving parents and executives with a 1.10% AUM fee, distinguishing him through his seasoned expertise and comprehensive approach.
Experience: 42 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Paul M
Series 66
Walnut Creek, CA
Wells Fargo Clearing
Paul Meyer specializes in planning for children with special needs and retirement income strategy, supported by his background in education and a Series 66 designation. Operating within a large firm known for comprehensive wealth management and serving high-net-worth clients, he offers flat-fee and asset-based fee structures, providing flexible options compared to other advisors in the Pleasanton area.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $475,575
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Richard S
Series 63, Series 65
Pleasanton, CA
Wells Fargo Advisors
Richard Schacht offers expertise in planning for children with special needs within a large firm setting in Pleasanton, CA, backed by 38 years of industry experience and Series 63 and 65 licenses. His affiliation with Wells Fargo Advisors provides access to comprehensive financial planning services, including retirement and wealth-transfer strategies, catering to high-net-worth clients and business owners, which distinguishes him from other advisors in the area.
Experience: 38 years
Avg account: $514,335
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Simon K
Series 66
Alamo, CA
Edward Jones
Simon Knight specializes in planning for children with special needs and is affiliated with Edward Jones, a large firm known for comprehensive wealth management and a broad network of over 23,700 advisors. With a background at Easter Seals Northern California/Catalight and a Series 66 registration, he offers expertise in business succession and estate planning, charging up to 1.35% annually in program fees.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $246,728
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