FULLY INFORMED PRICING
No hidden fees, referral fees, or commissions - ever
Your financial planning fee shouldn't depend on your net worth
Unlike most financial firms:
- We don't sell financial products and we don't accept commissions or third-party compensation
- We don't charge AUM fees (fees based on the size of your portfolio)
- You don't need assets for us to manage to work with us
- You'll receive a clear time and fee estimate in advance, with any additional work discussed and billed only if needed
Why we don't use the AUM model
Many financial advisors are compensated through a percentage of assets under management (AUM). This model is common and can be appropriate in certain circumstances.
Under an asset-based approach, fees are tied to the value of your investments rather than the amount of planning work required. As a result, the cost of advice may increase or decrease even when your planning needs do not.
We chose a time-based model because it aligns fees with the work being done. You pay for advice, analysis, and guidance — not for the size of your portfolio.
This structure allows us to focus on what matters most: helping you make informed decisions across all areas of your financial life, whether or not those decisions involve investments.
Why our firm chose a different path
We chose a time-based approach because we believe financial advice should be focused on decision-making, not asset gathering. Our goal is to provide objective guidance across all areas of your financial life — whether or not an investment transaction is involved.
This structure allows us to remain independent, conflict-free, and focused entirely on helping you make informed choices that serve your best interests.
AUM vs. Time-Based Planning
H
Fees structure
Typical example
What drives the fee
Relationship between fees and work performed
Traditional AUM Model
Fees are calculated as a percentage of assets under management
A 1% annual fee on a $1,000,000 portfolio equals $10,000 per year
The size of the investment portfolio
Fees may change with market values, even if planning needs remain the same
Our Time-Based Model
Fees are based on the time required to provide planning, advice, and support
An agreed-upon hourly or subscription fee based on the estimated time required
The amount of time required to do the work
Fees are aligned with the work performed and adjusted only if time or scope changes
What does it cost to work with us?
- Our fee is $250/hour, and every engagement is customized to your goals and complexity
- After an introductory consultation, we provide a written time-and-fee estimate so you know what to expect
- Most comprehensive planning engagements start at $3,000, reflecting the time required to do the work thoroughly
Comprehensive Financial or Retirement Planning
A comprehensive, planning-first engagement designed to clarify your goals, identify strategies, and create a clear path forward. Comprehensive planning is required to work with us and forms the foundation for all advice we provide.
Depending on your needs, comprehensive planning may be completed as a standalone engagement or incorporated directly into an ongoing subscription agreement.
The typical fee ranges between $3,000 - $5,000 for most engagements*
Ongoing Subscription Planning, Advice, & Investment Support
Ongoing financial planning, advice, and support for individuals and families seeking continued guidance and accountability as their financial situation evolves.
All subscription relationships include comprehensive planning, with ongoing services considered only if they add value based on your needs and preferences.
The typical fee ranges between $2,000 - $5,000 per year for most engagements*
* The estimated fee may be higher if you are a business owner, have a highly structured legal estate, own private or illiquid investments or otherwise have complexity in your financial life.
Employer Services
The fee for employer services is time-based and will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
Scope of services
Time to perform scope of services
Complexity of the assignment
If you’re ready for advice that’s clear, transparent, and focused entirely on your best interests, let’s talk
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Etzler Financial Advisors, LLC (“EFA”) is a registered investment adviser offering advisory services in the State of California and in other jurisdictions where exempt or otherwise permitted by law. Information on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a solicitation of advisory services in any jurisdiction where EFA is not properly registered or exempt. Personalized investment advice is provided only after complying with applicable registration requirements or pursuant to an available exemption.