Garrett Williamson, CFP

09/07/2026

The thought of receiving an unexpected inheritance sounds positively life-changing. But it's important to take the time to absorb the impact of your newfound money. Don’t spend impulsively; decide how you’d like to spend it over time.

An inheritance can make a big difference in your financial life, but creating a plan to manage that money can be daunting. 

09/06/2026

The list of IRA withdrawals that may be taken without incurring a 10% early penalty has grown.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed an...

09/05/2026

Stay-at-home spouses and gig workers add value to the family’s finances. Here’s how to help make sure they’re protected

How to help make sure your family is covered financially should something happen to either spouse

09/04/2026

The question I ask every new client:

"What scares you most about where you are in your financial life compared to where you want to be?"

It's the wrong first question by industry standards.

Most advisors open with "what's your income" or "what do you have saved."

I get to that. Just not first.

Here's why.

My planning process takes 6 to 8 meetings before we ever build a portfolio.

Cash flow. Debt strategy. Protection. Investments. Tax. Income planning. Legacy.

Every meeting has one theme. We go deep. Client gets action items. I get action items. We review them the next time we meet.

Most advisors do 3 meetings and call it done. I take 3x as long on purpose.

Because the goal isn't a plan.

The goal is a client who understands why the plan looks the way it does. So when life shifts, they know what to do next.

That takes time. And it costs me clients sometimes.

Some people don't want that many meetings. They want a portfolio and a check-in once a year.

That's fine. It's just not what I do.

Here's the other thing I've learned.

The best clients aren't the highest earners or the best savers. They're the ones with an abundance mindset.

Scarcity mindset shows up in specific ways:

Paying extra on a 3% mortgage instead of investing.
Chasing high returns because saving more feels impossible.
Cancelling life insurance because a second baby made money feel tight.

Every one of those decisions is driven by fear of the near-term. And every one costs them the long-term.

Which is why I open with the fear question.

Because if I understand what's scaring you, I understand what's actually driving your decisions.

And that's where planning has to start.

09/04/2026

Identity theft is becoming more common every day. Here’s what to do if it happens to you, along with some ways to make it harder for fraudsters to steal your identity and credit

Here’s what to do if you fall victim to identity theft and tips for making it harder for fraudsters to steal your good name

08/31/2026

You may think preparing for a natural disaster includes packing a bag with food, water, and some of your possessions. But it should also include gathering financial documents, reviewing insurance policies, and getting cash. Check out these steps that

Incorporating financial preparedness into your disaster plans may help you handle the aftermath with more resilience

08/30/2026

Investment strategies continually evolve. New technology, plus lesser-known financial tools, can help you reach your long-term money goals.

A diverse portfolio can be more than stocks and bonds.

08/29/2026

Whether you are already retired or just starting to prepare, take a look at your home. Is rightsizing the right decision?

What does your home really cost?

08/28/2026

This piece guides readers through placing financial pillars in place, sustaining financial well-being or creating wealth.

Sustain financial well-being or create wealth through these actions.

08/24/2026

From credit cards to mortgages, most of us go into debt for the lifestyle we want. Here are 8 ways to help manage debt wisely to avoid overextending yourself.

8 ways to help manage debt wisely to avoid overextending yourself.