Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) 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.
When you're planning for college expenses, you want to make sure your savings strategy fits your family's timeline and financial situation. A common mistake is not accounting for how different savings vehicles affect financial aid eligibility and tax treatment.
- Account type impact. Ask how 529 plans versus UTMA accounts influence your child's financial aid and your tax benefits.
- Contribution flexibility. Confirm how the advisor handles changes in your savings goals or unexpected shifts in college plans.
- Large-firm resources. These advisors often have access to broader investment options and institutional support, which can affect your plan's cost and performance.
- Estate tax considerations. In New York, small increases above exemption limits can trigger significant estate taxes; check how your college savings fit into your overall estate plan.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Robert N
Series 66
Rochester, NY
Edward Jones
Robert Nestrick specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by Edward Jones's extensive resources as a large firm in Rochester, NY. With a Series 66 designation and a background in education, he brings a unique perspective to retirement and wealth management, offering a program fee up to 1.35% annually, which may suit clients seeking comprehensive support from a nationally connected advisor.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Michael M
Series 63, Series 65
Rochester, NY
J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc.
Michael Mason specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 25 years of experience and a large-firm environment at J.W. Cole Advisors, which offers extensive portfolio management and third-party manager access. His flat-fee options and background as a founder and retired professional provide flexible planning suited for families navigating tax and estate considerations in Rochester, NY.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $255,702
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Lawrence K
Series 63, Series 66
Rochester, NY
LPL Financial
Lawrence Kasinowski specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by nine years of experience and Series 63 and 66 licenses, making him well-equipped to navigate tax and financial aid implications in Rochester, NY. His affiliation with LPL Financial, a large firm offering both flat and hourly fee structures, provides access to broad investment options and institutional resources, distinguishing him from advisors with smaller firm backgrounds.
Experience: 9 years
Avg account: $399,489
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David M
Series 66
Buffalo, NY
Merrill
David Meisenzahl specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging Merrill's large-firm resources to offer broad investment options and institutional support. Located in Pittsford, NY, he combines his Series 66 license and MBA background to tailor strategies that align with clients' financial goals, distinguishing him through a client-focused approach and access to Bank of America's credit and lending services.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $860,085
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William S
Series 63, Series 66
Rochester, NY
Empower Advisory Group
William Schiefer specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by seven years of experience and Series 63 and 66 licenses. Operating within Empower Advisory Group, a large firm in Rochester, NY, he offers flat-fee and monthly subscription pricing, leveraging the firm's integrated planning and investment management approach tailored to employer-sponsored retirement plans and retail clients.
Experience: 7 years
Avg account: $565,063
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