Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Troy, AL
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 an advisor who understands how to balance saving with other financial goals. Without this focus, you might miss out on strategies that maximize your savings while minimizing tax impacts.
- Account type guidance. Confirm they explain differences between 529 plans and UTMA accounts, including tax benefits and control over funds.
- Contribution strategy. Ask how they recommend timing and amount of contributions to align with your child's education timeline.
- Financial aid impact. Check if they consider how savings accounts affect eligibility for scholarships and aid.
- Coordination with overall plan. Ensure they integrate college savings with your broader financial goals, not treating it in isolation.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Jacob R
Series 66
Montgomery, AL
Merrill
Jacob Ray specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 13 years of experience at Merrill, a large firm. His expertise extends to wealth management and retirement income strategy, serving parents and business owners, with a 1.10% AUM fee for managed strategies, distinguishing him through a comprehensive approach integrating college savings with broader financial goals.
Experience: 13 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Katrina K
Series 63, Series 66
Enterprise, AL
Empower Advisory Group
Katrina Kroening specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by her experience at large firms like JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America. Her flat-fee structure and focus on integrated financial planning through Empower Advisory Group distinguish her from others, offering clear cost options and coordination with broader retirement and income strategies.
Experience: 2 years
Avg account: $565,063
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Donald B
Series 63
Troy, AL
LPL Financial
Donald Bentley's 38 years of experience and Series 63 designation equip him to guide college savings strategies effectively, including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, within a large firm setting. His flat-fee structure and background as a founder and retired professional offer a seasoned perspective, distinguishing him from others by blending wealth management and tax-loss harvesting expertise in Troy, AL.
Experience: 38 years
Avg account: $399,489
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Jerry H
Series 66
Montgomery, AL
Edward Jones
Jerry Hanshaw specializes in college savings plans including 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by his six years of experience and Series 66 designation at Edward Jones, a large firm with extensive resources. His military background and focus on newlyweds add a unique perspective, while the firm's comprehensive wealth management services and a program fee up to 1.35% annually distinguish him from other advisors in the Troy, AL area.
Experience: 6 years
Avg account: $246,728
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Kimberly J
Series 66
Montgomery, AL
Charles Schwab
Kimberly Jennings at Charles Schwab offers expertise in college savings plans, including 529s and UTMA accounts, supported by 21 years of experience and a Series 66 designation. Serving primarily high-net-worth clients, her firm provides a centralized structure with both non-discretionary and discretionary advisory options, charging an 0.80% annual AUM fee, which may suit those seeking comprehensive wealth management alongside education funding.
Experience: 21 years
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