Top advisors focused on startup equity planning in the US
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 recently received stock options or equity in a startup, you need an advisor who understands how to navigate the complex rules around these assets. Without expert guidance, you might miss key tax deadlines or make decisions that reduce your potential gains.
- Equity type expertise. Confirm they know the differences between stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), and other startup equity forms, as each has unique tax and exercise implications.
- Vesting schedule insight. Ask how they help you plan around your equity vesting timeline to optimize tax outcomes and liquidity.
- Exit strategy planning. Ensure they consider your startup’s potential exit scenarios and how your equity fits into your broader financial goals.
- Tax impact awareness. Look for advisors who can explain how exercising options or selling shares affects your tax bill, including alternative minimum tax (AMT) considerations.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Kimberly H
VerifiedCFP®, CRPC®
Troy, MI
Innermost Wealth Management, LLC
Kimberly Houston specializes in startup equity planning, offering expertise in managing stock options and equity compensation with a focus on tax implications and vesting schedules. She provides comprehensive financial planning and investment management through a tiered AUM fee structure, serving primarily women professionals and established clients nationwide via her fully virtual firm, which emphasizes a personalized, values-driven approach.
Experience: 10 years
Avg account: $0
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George S
Series 66
Hartford, CT
Merrill
George Silvester specializes in startup equity planning, working with founders and executives to navigate equity ownership and compensation complexities, including liquidity event planning and tax implications. Based in Hartford, CT, he brings eight years of experience at Merrill, a large firm, and offers a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies under $2 million, distinguishing him with a focus on mid-career professionals and high earners not yet rich.
Experience: 8 years
Avg account: $860,085
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James V
Series 66
Stuart, FL
Fidelity
James Van Nice specializes in startup equity planning and executive compensation, making him well-equipped to guide clients through complex equity types and liquidity events. With seven years of industry experience and a Series 66 designation, he operates within Fidelity, a large firm known for extensive resources. His background in executive services and focus on benefits planning provide a strong foundation for clients seeking tailored strategies around startup equity and executive benefits.
Experience: 7 years
Avg account: $234,793
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Adam N
CFP®, Series 66
Mankato, MN
Edward Jones
Adam Neubauer specializes in startup equity planning, bringing 11 years of experience and CFP® certification to help navigate complex equity types and tax implications. Based in Mankato, MN, he works with Edward Jones, a large firm managing over $1 trillion in assets, offering diverse investment strategies and a comprehensive support network, which may provide broader resources compared to smaller firms.
Experience: 11 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Juan P
Series 66
San Francisco, CA
Optimo Capital
Juan Polanco specializes in startup equity planning, leveraging his 11 years of experience and Series 66 designation to assist founders and executives in navigating complex equity and tax scenarios. Based in San Francisco, he offers flat-fee and project-based pricing through Optimo Capital, a firm known for serving emerging companies with flexible fees and no account minimums, distinguishing him from advisors with traditional fee structures or broader client focuses.
Experience: 11 years
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