Large-firm, college savings (529s, UTMA, etc.) financial advisors in Tustin, 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.
Saving for college often starts when you want to make the most of tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans or UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) accounts. Without careful planning, you might miss how these accounts affect your financial aid eligibility or how to balance saving for college with other goals.
- Tax impact awareness. Ask how they navigate California’s high income taxes alongside benefits like Proposition 13, which limits property tax increases.
- Account selection guidance. Confirm they explain when a 529 plan is better than a UTMA or other savings vehicles for your situation.
- Large-firm resources. These advisors often have access to broader research and tools, which can help tailor college savings strategies.
- Coordination with financial goals. See how they integrate college savings with your overall financial plan, not just treat it as a separate task.
Here are top matches to get you started. Review each profile to compare experience, credentials, and approach.
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Nicole G
Series 63, Series 65
Irvine, CA
J. W. Cole Advisors, Inc.
Nicole Gasque specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by her role at J.W. Cole Advisors, a large SEC-registered firm with extensive resources. With three years of experience and flat-fee options, she offers personalized financial planning from Irvine, CA, balancing college savings with broader financial goals and serving diverse client types.
Experience: 4 years
Avg account: $255,702
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John S
CFP®, Series 66
Irvine, CA
Schwab Wealth Advisory
John Somerville Jr. specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by his CFP® certification and experience at Schwab Wealth Advisory, a large firm offering extensive resources. Located near Tustin in Irvine, CA, he integrates tax planning and retirement income strategies, serving clients like executives and business owners, which distinguishes him from advisors focusing solely on college savings.
Experience: 4 years
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Daniel R
Series 63
Santa Ana, CA
Centaurus Financial, Inc.
Daniel Roberts specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by his 47 years of industry experience and affiliation with the large firm Centaurus Financial, Inc. His background as a founder and business owner, combined with negotiable hourly financial planning fees and a maximum advisory fee of 2.25% AUM, distinguishes him from other advisors in the Tustin area by offering seasoned expertise and flexible fee options.
Experience: 47 years
Avg account: $213,989
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Howard M
Series 63, Series 66
Irvine, CA
Charles Schwab
Howard Mak's expertise in college savings and multi-state taxation, combined with his 13 years of experience and Series 63 and 66 registrations, equips him to navigate complex tax implications for California families. Working at Charles Schwab, a large firm serving high-net-worth clients with multi-asset portfolios and a 0.80% AUM fee, he offers access to extensive resources and integrated financial planning beyond just college savings.
Experience: 14 years
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Randy P
Series 66
Irvine, CA
LPL Financial
Randy Pierce specializes in college savings strategies including 529 plans and UTMA accounts, supported by 25 years of experience and a Series 66 designation at LPL Financial, a large firm with extensive research resources. His flat-fee structure and background as a founder and retired professional provide a unique blend of tax expertise and personalized service, distinguishing him from other advisors in the Tustin area.
Experience: 26 years
Avg account: $399,489
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