FAQ

1. What kind of clients do you typically work with?

At CAID Financial, we primarily serve physicians and high-income professionals who are navigating the financial complexities that come with demanding careers. We also work with pre-retirees and high-net-worth individuals who want a transparent, fee-only fiduciary partner in advisory relationships, to help them make confident, informed decisions at every stage of life.

2. What does "fee-only" mean, and why does it matter?

Fee-only means we are compensated solely by you — never by commissions, product sales, or referral fees from insurance companies or investment firms. This eliminates conflicts of interest. The alternative, "fee-based," allows advisors to earn commissions on products they recommend, which can subtly (or not so subtly) influence their advice. At CAID Financial, our only incentive is your financial wellbeing.

3. Does CAID have an account minimum?

We have investment minimums for our managed portfolio services, but we recognize that early-career physicians and high-income earners often have significant income and planning needs before they've accumulated substantial assets. We work with qualified physicians at every stage — reach out and we'll find an arrangement that makes sense for your situation.

4. What does the onboarding process look like?

We follow a three-step process designed with your busy schedule in mind:

1. Diagnose — We begin with a comprehensive discovery meeting to understand your complete financial picture, goals, and concerns.
2. Prescribe — We deliver a detailed financial plan and investment strategy tailored specifically to your situation.
3. Monitor — We provide ongoing oversight, proactive adjustments, and regular reviews as your life and career evolve.

From initial conversation to fully onboarded client typically takes two to four weeks.

5. What services does CAID provide?

Our services include, but are not limited to:  Comprehensive financial planning, Investment management & portfolio construction, Student loan strategy (IDR, PSLF, refinancing analysis), Tax planning & optimization (including backdoor Roth, mega backdoor Roth), Insurance analysis (disability, life, malpractice), Retirement planning (401k, 403b), and Estate planning coordination.

6. How often will we meet?

At minimum, we meet with comprehensive planning clients twice per year for formal reviews. Many clients prefer quarterly check-ins, particularly during major life events — contract negotiations, home purchases, practice transitions, or new family members. Outside of scheduled meetings, you'll always have direct access to reach us when something comes up. We operate with the responsiveness that physicians deserve.

7. How is CAID different from my advisor at a large firm?

Several meaningful ways. First, we have no proprietary products to sell, no quotas to meet, and no corporate incentives influencing our recommendations. Second, we specialize in physicians — your financial situation isn't a side case, it's our entire focus. Third, as an independent firm, you'll work directly with an experienced advisor, not a rotating associate. Finally, our fee-only model means our success is tied directly to yours.

8. Are my assets held safely? Who has custody?

Your assets are held by a third-party custodian — not by CAID Financial. We work with LPL Financial as our custodial partner, one of the largest and most established independent custodians in the country. This means your accounts are always in your name, you receive independent statements directly from the custodian, and CAID Financial never takes possession of your assets. This is a fundamental safeguard of the independent RIA model.

9. What credentials does your advisor hold?

Our founder holds the ChFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU® (Chartered Life Underwriter), and RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional) designations, with over 12 years of financial advisory experience. These certifications require rigorous coursework, examinations, and ongoing continuing education — ensuring advice grounded in both technical depth and practical experience.

10. What's the easiest way to get started?

Just reach out. Whether you call, email, or complete the contact form, I'll get back to you, and we'll set up a time to talk. No preparation needed — just a conversation about your life and your goals.