Seasoned, charitable giving & philanthropy financial advisors in Troy, 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.
If you're planning a significant charitable gift or setting up philanthropy goals, you need an advisor who understands how to maximize your impact while managing tax implications. A common mistake is overlooking how estate tax cliffs can trigger large tax bills just above exemption limits.
- Tax impact awareness. Confirm the advisor knows how charitable giving can reduce estate taxes and avoid unexpected tax burdens.
- Gift structuring expertise. Ask how they recommend structuring donations to balance your financial goals with your philanthropic intentions.
- Long-term giving plans. Look for advisors who consider how your giving fits into your overall financial and estate plans over time.
- Experience with local laws. Ensure they understand New York state-specific rules that affect charitable contributions and estate planning.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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David R
Series 63, Series 66
Rensselaer, NY
IP Financial Advisory Services LLC
David Reo brings 34 years of experience in charitable giving and philanthropy, offering expertise in business succession and income planning, which is valuable for managing complex estate and tax considerations in Troy, NY. His firm serves individual retail clients with flat-fee and hourly consulting options, focusing on personalized financial planning and retirement plans for business owners, distinguishing him from advisors with more traditional fee structures or client bases.
Experience: 35 years
Avg account: $240,578
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Nicole L
Series 63, Series 65
Latham, NY
Merrill
Nicole Leonard's 27 years of experience and expertise in charitable giving and philanthropy make her well-equipped to guide significant donations and philanthropy goals in Troy, NY. As a seasoned advisor at Merrill, she offers wealth management, estate planning, and retirement income strategies, serving executives and business owners with a 1.10% AUM fee, distinguishing her through large-firm resources and a collaborative approach.
Experience: 27 years
Avg account: $860,085
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Buffy L
Series 63, Series 65
Albany, NY
Rockefeller Financial LLC
Buffy Leonard's 24 years of experience and expertise in charitable giving and philanthropy make her well-equipped to guide significant charitable gifts in the Troy, NY area. Affiliated with Rockefeller Financial LLC, a large firm serving ultra-high-net-worth clients, she offers flat-fee planning options and integrates wealth management with retirement and business exit strategies, providing a comprehensive approach compared to other advisors.
Experience: 24 years
Avg account: $1,718,381
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Michael B
CFP®, Series 63
Colonie, NY
Cetera
Michael Bonanno's 39 years of experience and CFP® certification equip him to handle charitable giving and philanthropy with a deep understanding of tax implications and estate planning. Affiliated with Cetera, a large firm offering diverse portfolio management and flat-fee financial planning, he serves high earners and those approaching retirement, providing tailored strategies that balance philanthropy with wealth management.
Experience: 40 years
Avg account: $306,089
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Mary B
Series 63, Series 66
Waterford, NY
Fidelity
Mary Bigelow's 25 years of experience and focus on charitable giving and philanthropy equip her to help clients in Troy, NY, plan impactful donations while managing tax implications. Affiliated with Fidelity, a large firm known for combining fundamental research and quantitative analysis, she also offers expertise in active portfolio management, providing a comprehensive approach compared to advisors with narrower specialties.
Experience: 25 years
Avg account: $234,793
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