Top college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in St. Joseph, MO
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.
Saving for college often starts when you want to make the most of tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans or UTMA custodial accounts. A common mistake is not aligning the savings plan with your child's age and your overall financial goals, which can reduce the benefits.
- Account type guidance. Confirm which college savings vehicles they recommend and why, ensuring they fit your timeline and risk comfort.
- Investment strategy. Ask how they adjust investments as your child gets closer to college age to balance growth and safety.
- Financial aid impact. Check if they consider how savings accounts affect your child's eligibility for financial aid.
- Coordination with other goals. See how they integrate college savings with your retirement and other priorities to avoid unintended trade-offs.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Brian S
Series 66
Saint Joseph, MO
Cetera
Brian Sears specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by eight years of experience and a Series 66 credential. Operating from Saint Joseph, MO, he offers flat-fee financial planning through Cetera, a large firm providing diverse investment options and managed account programs, which may appeal to clients seeking comprehensive services beyond college savings.
Experience: 9 years
Avg account: $306,089
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Zane W
Series 66
St Joseph, MO
Edward Jones
Zane Wilt specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by his Series 66 designation and affiliation with Edward Jones, a large full-service wealth management firm. His background as a founder and executive, combined with Edward Jones' broad advisory programs and a fee structure up to 1.35% annually, distinguishes him from other advisors in St. Joseph, MO.
Experience: 1 year
Avg account: $246,728
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Ward B
Series 66
St Joseph, MO
API Financial Advisors, LLC
Ward Brooks specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, with a decade of experience and a Series 66 designation, making him well-equipped to guide families in St. Joseph, MO. His firm employs model-based strategies and sub-advisers to customize portfolios, offering both financial planning and discretionary management with fees capped at 1.95% annually plus trading costs, which may suit clients seeking tailored investment approaches.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $372,912
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Gregory P
Series 63, Series 65
St. Joseph, MO
LPL Financial
Gregory Pargas specializes in college savings plans like 529s and UTMA accounts, leveraging 19 years of experience and credentials including Series 63 and 65. Operating through LPL Financial, a large firm offering flat-fee financial planning, he serves a diverse client base and integrates tax-loss harvesting and retirement planning strategies, providing a broad approach compared to advisors focused solely on college savings.
Experience: 19 years
Avg account: $399,489
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