FAQ
Straightforward answers about how we work, how we’re compensated, and what it means to have a fiduciary in your corner.
We’ve compiled answers to questions we hear most often from families we serve in Minnesota and Virginia. If you don’t see yours below, we’d be glad to talk it through in a discovery meeting.
Working With The Legacy Financial
Who is Great Valley Advisor Group?
Great Valley Advisor Group (GVA) is a Registered Investment Advisor. Investment advice is offered through GVA. The Legacy Financial and Great Valley Advisor Group are separate entities. GVA also provides the technology, research, compliance, and operations support that help us stay focused on your plan. Read more about our relationship with GVA.
Where do I find my tax documents?
If your accounts are held at Fidelity, tax forms are on Fidelity.com under Documents, then Tax Forms. Schwab clients can retrieve tax documents from the Documents area of Schwab Alliance. If you are unsure which custodian holds an account, contact us and we will point you to the right login.
What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary must place the client’s interest before their own. They are required to disclose conflicts of interest and provide recommendations tailored to your unique situation. As fiduciaries, we consider every aspect of the planning process to provide a cohesive and easy-to-understand plan.
Do you have an investment minimum?
There is no charge for the initial consultation. During that conversation we will examine whether working together is a good fit for you and for our firm.
How are you compensated?
Investment advice is offered through Great Valley Advisor Group. We will explain compensation clearly before you engage the firm. Insurance is offered separately by Ethan Freishtat as an independent insurance agent. Securities may be offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Where are your offices?
We have offices in Harvard, Massachusetts (978-369-7200) and Florida (603-732-2530), and we work with clients across the country.
How do I log in to my accounts?
Use Account View in the header to open Schwab or Fidelity. Choose the portal that matches the account you need.
Planning & Advice
What does the planning process look like?
Our client experience moves through discovery, data gathering, analysis and design, a plan presentation, implementation, and an ongoing partnership with regular check-ins. Visit the Process page for the detail of each step.
How often will we meet?
Meeting frequency depends on your needs. We typically review progress on a regular cadence and stay in touch when markets, taxes, or life events call for a closer look. Accountability is one of our four pillars.
Do you provide tax or legal advice?
The Legacy Financial and Great Valley Advisor Group do not provide tax or legal advice or services. Please consult with your tax or legal advisor regarding your specific situation. We work alongside those professionals so strategies stay coordinated.
Do you help with special-needs planning?
Yes. Ethan Freishtat, CFP® and CHSNC® (Chartered Special Needs Counselor), works with families who have members with developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or mental illness. There is no charge for the initial consultation.
Who is LPL Financial?
LPL Financial is an independent broker-dealer that provides technology, research, clearing, and practice-management support. Securities may be offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. LPL offers no proprietary investment products, which supports our ability to give objective advice. The Legacy Financial and Great Valley Advisor Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.
Retirement, Investing & Taxes
How do I create retirement income?
Creating retirement income typically involves coordinating savings, investments, Social Security, pensions, and other assets. A retirement income strategy can help align those resources with your spending needs and long-term goals.
How should my investments change as I get closer to retirement?
As retirement approaches, many investors review their portfolio against time horizon, income needs, and risk tolerance. Any changes should follow your individual circumstances and overall plan.
What is tax-efficient investing?
Tax-efficient investing considers the potential tax impact of trades, account types, and withdrawal strategies. The goal is better after-tax outcomes while staying aligned with your objectives.
How can charitable giving impact taxes?
Charitable giving may provide tax benefits depending on your situation, filing status, and the type of assets donated. We will present options so you can carefully consider the potential benefits and consequences.
Estate & Special Needs
What do wills and trusts do?
Wills and trusts are estate planning tools that can help direct how assets are managed and distributed. The appropriate use of each depends on your goals, family circumstances, and overall estate planning needs. We do not draft legal documents; we coordinate with your attorney.
What is a special-needs trust?
A special-needs (or supplemental-needs) trust is a type of irrevocable trust designed so assets can be used for a disabled beneficiary without interfering with eligibility for government assistance. Funding may include investments, cash, life insurance, or an annuity.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review periodically and after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a change in financial circumstances, a new diagnosis, or updates to estate-planning law.
Still have questions?
Schedule an introductory meeting and we’ll walk through your situation together.