Top business succession planning financial advisors in Rochester, NY
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 own a business and are thinking about stepping back or retiring, you need a business succession planning advisor to help you transfer ownership smoothly. Without careful planning, you might face unexpected tax bills or disrupt your company's future.
- Tax cliff awareness. Confirm the advisor understands how estate tax thresholds can cause large tax bills if your business value crosses exemption limits.
- Ownership transition strategies. Ask how they balance keeping the business operational while transferring control to new owners or family members.
- Valuation expertise. Ensure they can accurately value your business to avoid surprises during sale or inheritance.
- Stakeholder coordination. Check how they involve all parties—family, partners, and employees—to align interests and prevent conflicts.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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James T
ChFC®, Series 63, Series 65
Rochester, NY
Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC
James Traylor specializes in business succession planning and wealth management, supported by 18 years of experience and credentials including ChFC®, Series 63, and Series 65. Operating within the large firm Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC in Rochester, NY, he offers negotiated flat fees and hourly rates, providing flexible financial planning and retirement plan consulting services that may suit diverse business transition needs.
Experience: 18 years
Avg account: $294,061
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Randall T
CFP®, Series 63, Series 65
Rochester, NY
Raymond James & Associates
Randall Trahan's 22 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to handle business succession planning in Rochester, NY, with expertise in retirement income strategy and founder/executive client focus. Working at Raymond James & Associates, a large firm managing $501 billion in assets, he offers flat-fee planning services and hourly consultations, distinguishing him with flexible fee options and institutional resources compared to other advisors.
Experience: 22 years
Avg account: $788,879
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Mark F
Series 63
Rochester, NY
Lincoln Investment
Mark Fitch's 41 years of experience and expertise in business succession planning and equity compensation tax strategy make him well-equipped to assist business owners in Rochester, NY, with ownership transitions. Affiliated with Lincoln Investment, a large firm offering flat-fee financial planning and supported by an in-house research team, he serves a diverse clientele including executives and self-employed professionals, providing strategic investment and planning services.
Experience: 41 years
Avg account: $157,266
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Connie G
Series 63, Series 65
Rochester, NY
Raymond James Financial
Connie Gilderhus specializes in business succession planning and tax strategies for small businesses, making her well-equipped to assist Rochester business owners with ownership transitions and tax considerations. Affiliated with Raymond James Financial, a large firm offering flat-fee planning services, she brings 15 years of experience and credentials including Series 63 and 65, supporting a diverse client base with tailored, analytical advisory approaches.
Experience: 15 years
Avg account: $700,796
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Judith A
Series 66
Rochester, NY
Ciccarelli Advisory Services Inc
Judith Alexander Wasley specializes in business succession planning in Rochester, NY, with 16 years of experience and expertise in retirement income strategy, tax planning, and cash flow management. She offers flat-fee and hourly consulting options through Ciccarelli Advisory Services, which serves diverse clients including businesses and trusts, focusing on long-term strategic investing with tactical adjustments.
Experience: 16 years
Avg account: $446,472
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