What Happens if One of My Team Members Retires, or Closes Their Business?

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I have a Financial Team but What is One Retires

Let’s review my team first and then ponder what if one retires. Here is my Team. The answer depends a bit on who you are, what your life situation is and what your goals are. Here are some guidelines.

• Financial Advisor-Similar to a primary care doctor, a financial advisor can take an expansive look at your finances and provide guidance and insight. They can also give input on investing decisions, help you manage your tax liability and can refer you to specialists (such as a debt counselor or money coach) when you need more in-depth help with one particular matter. Working with a financial advisor is incredibly beneficial to those who are managing multiple streams of income or have wealth to invest. Having access to professional advice is also important for those beginning to manage their own long-term financial journey who are dealing with questions about college planning, life insurance and wills, and for those nearing retirement who need to ensure they are prepared and able to enjoy their retirement in the way they have envisioned.
• Insurance Agent-An insurance agent helps you safeguard your property and your livelihood in the form of auto, homeowners, renters, life and long-term care insurance. They can advise you on the best policies to protect you, your family and the future you are building from risk. While there are a variety of online insurance providers, the benefit of a local agent is their connections in the community and the quality of care you receive. For example, they can suggest a local auto body shop after a fender bender. They will also meet with you to discuss where you are today and where you’re going to help you with all of life’s plans. When you’re searching for an insurance agent to join your team, think not only of price but also of the service you’re receiving and your insurance agent’s ability to work with the other members of your financial team.
• Attorney–An attorney or lawyer can assist you with buying/selling property (including businesses), creating a will and estate plan, negotiating contracts and more. Unless you own a business, you aren’t likely to interact with a lawyer very often. However, when you are in a situation in which their insight would be beneficial, don’t leave them off of your list! Some situations may require a specialist, but having a relationship with someone before you need their services helps ensure you are receiving quality advice.
• Accountant/Tax Advisor–An accountant or tax advisor handles your taxes, including ensuring that they have been filed correctly, finding deductions you can benefit from and filing extensions if needed. They can also help manage your charitable donations. If you’re a business owner, accountants are important in managing and communicating the company’s finances. If your taxes are complicated, such as if they include multiple income streams, lots of deductions, foreign investments, etc., then its likely worthwhile to hire an accountant.

If one member retires, the team can keep working while you find a replacement. This is one of the primary benefits in working with a team. Most likely, the other team members have worked with several specialists in the area. They will introduce you to several of the new advisors from which you can choose the one with whom you are most comfortable.

My Financial Situation is Very Basic. Do I Still Need a Team of Advisors?

Most likely you may already have one or two advisors you trust to handle most of the areas of you’re financial and estate plan. Typically, people have a tax preparer, an attorney, and perhaps a financial planner.  It is your responsibility to ask them if they feel comfortable giving advice in all these areas and if not, have them refer you to additional experts.