Large-firm financial advisors working with military members and veterans in San Diego, 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.
If you are an active military member or veteran navigating benefits, pensions, or transition to civilian life, you need an advisor who understands the unique financial challenges you face. Without this expertise, you might miss key benefits or mismanage tax implications tied to military income and assets. Large-firm advisors often have access to broader resources and specialized teams to support complex military financial needs.
- Military benefits knowledge. Confirm how they integrate VA benefits, pensions, and survivor benefits into your overall plan.
- Transition planning. Ask how they help manage the shift from military to civilian income and benefits smoothly.
- Tax impact awareness. Military pay and benefits can have unique tax treatments; ensure they understand California’s tax nuances.
- Property tax considerations. With California’s Proposition 13, check how they advise on property tax limits for military homeowners.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Dean R
Series 63, Series 65
San Diego, CA
Merrill
Dean Ridgway's two decades of experience and military background as a retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel equip him to address the unique financial challenges faced by military members and veterans in San Diego. Affiliated with Merrill Lynch, a large firm, he offers a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies under $2 million and specializes in retirement income strategy and multi-generational wealth transfer, distinguishing him from other advisors in the area.
Experience: 20 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Jason L
CFP®, Series 66
San Diego, CA
Edward Jones
Jason Lavely specializes in serving military members and veterans in San Diego, leveraging his 10 years of experience and CFP® certification to address retirement income and estate planning needs. Practicing at Edward Jones, a large firm managing over $1 trillion in assets, he offers a comprehensive wealth management approach with a program fee up to 1.35% annually, distinguishing him through access to extensive resources and tailored strategies for military clients.
Experience: 11 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Chris K
CFP®, ChFC®
San Diego, CA
Mercer Global Advisors Inc.
Chris Kiesel is well-equipped to assist military members and veterans in San Diego with his expertise in military financial needs and his experience at Mercer Global Advisors, a large firm offering extensive resources. His background as a former aviator and CFP® certification complement his strategic investment approach, while his flat-fee structure and discounted fees for active military members provide accessible financial planning tailored to high-net-worth Gen X clients.
Experience: 5 years
Avg account: $2,214,259
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