Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Evergreen Wealth Strategies different?
We believe financial planning is about more than investments. We work with individuals and families as trusted decision partners, helping them navigate important financial decisions, simplify complexity, and align their resources with what matters most.
Who do you work with?
We work with individuals and families across a variety of life stages, including young professionals, growing families, pre-retirees, retirees, and business owners.
What happens during an introductory conversation?
An introductory conversation is an opportunity to learn about your goals, challenges, and questions. It allows us to determine whether we may be a good fit to work together and whether we can provide value to your situation.
Where are your offices?
Our financial professionals are located in the metropolitan areas of St. Louis, Dallas, and Tampa. We are not limited geographically, however, as we have clients all across the country, meeting virtually on Microsoft Teams or Zoom.
Retirement Questions
When can I retire?
Retirement is not determined by age alone. It depends on factors such as your savings, expected spending, Social Security benefits, healthcare costs, taxes, and desired lifestyle. A retirement plan can help determine whether your resources are sufficient to support your goals.
How much money do I need to retire?
There is no single number that works for everyone. The amount needed depends on your spending, income sources, longevity, healthcare needs, and retirement goals. A personalized retirement income plan can help determine what is appropriate for your situation.
Is retirement planning just about investments?
No. Retirement planning involves much more than investing. Income planning, taxes, Social Security, healthcare, estate planning, and spending decisions all play important roles in creating a successful retirement.
What is the biggest mistake people make before retirement?
One common mistake is focusing only on accumulating assets without developing a strategy for turning those assets into sustainable retirement income. Another is waiting too long to address important retirement decisions.
What does “retire to something, not just from something” mean?
Retirement is not only a financial transition but also a personal one. Many retirees find greater satisfaction when they have a clear sense of purpose, activities, relationships, and goals that will shape this next phase of life.
Investment Questions
Should I invest when the market is at an all-time high?
Markets frequently reach new highs over time. Rather than trying to predict short-term market movements, many investors benefit from focusing on long-term goals, diversification, and consistent investing.
Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?
The answer depends on factors such as interest rates, cash flow needs, tax considerations, risk tolerance, and financial goals. Both options may have advantages depending on your situation.
How often should I review my investments?
Most investors benefit from periodic reviews rather than constant monitoring. Investment decisions should generally be aligned with long-term goals rather than short-term market fluctuations.
Financial Planning Questions
What is financial planning?
Financial planning is the process of evaluating your financial situation and creating strategies to help achieve your goals. It often includes cash flow planning, retirement planning, investment management, risk management, tax planning, and estate planning.
Why is financial planning important?
Financial planning can help individuals and families make informed decisions, prioritize goals, prepare for uncertainty, and create greater confidence about their financial future.
What is a trusted decision partner?
A trusted decision partner is someone who helps you think through important financial decisions by providing guidance, perspective, and accountability. The goal is not simply managing investments but helping you make thoughtful decisions aligned with your goals and values.
Family Questions
Should I help my adult children financially?
Many families face this question. The answer depends on your own financial security, your goals, and the nature of the support being considered. It is often important to balance helping children with maintaining your own long-term financial independence.
Should I save for college or retirement?
For many families, retirement savings should remain a priority because there are borrowing options for education but not for retirement. However, the appropriate balance depends on your specific circumstances and goals.
How can I talk to my family about money?
Open conversations about goals, values, expectations, and responsibilities can help families make better decisions and reduce misunderstandings. These discussions are often most productive when they occur before major financial events or transitions.