FAQS & CLIENT ONBOARDING

Welcome to our FAQ and Client Onboarding section. At IEM, we understand the importance of clarity and transparency when it comes to financial planning. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive from prospective clients. Whether you are looking to understand our services, fee structures, or how to get started, we've got you covered.

  • Clients collaborate with us for a variety of reasons. We believe that trust, comprehensive vision, and goal-oriented support are key factors that motivate our clients. Many new clients approach us during significant life events, such as the loss of a loved one, requiring structured financial organization and guidance. Additionally, clients appreciate our professional experience and dedication to financial planning, valuing the confidence that comes with the management of their financial affairs.

  • Financial advisors employ various fee structures, with the "Assets Under Management" or "Managed-Portfolio" model being the most common. At IEM, we recognize the uniqueness of each client’s needs and thus offer an "a la carte" pricing model. This allows clients to pay solely for the services they require. Typically, our clients engage us for consulting and holistic financial planning, separate from investment management. Acting as fiduciaries, we provide unbiased advice tailored to clients' best interests. In addition, we offer managed portfolio options, providing the flexibility to charge only for relevant and appropriate services.

  • Our flexible "a la carte" billing system accommodates clients at all financial stages. Whether you have substantial assets or are just beginning, we can tailor our services to fit your needs. Clients initiating their financial journey may opt for financial planning consulting, while those seeking holistic advice can also engage us for managed portfolio services.

  • The frequency of meetings and communications is customized based on client preferences and circumstances. Most clients favor an annual strategy session paired with a semi-annual review. During transitions such as job changes or receiving an inheritance, clients may require more frequent consultations. For new clients, we typically conduct 3-4 initial meetings before establishing a regular cycle.

  • At IEM, we adopt a team-based approach. Generally, you will have the support of two advisors and one to two Client Services specialists, dedicated to addressing your unique financial needs.

  • Progress is assessed during our annual strategy meetings where we review achievements, evaluate current status, and plan for future goals. The most effective measure of success is progress towards your comprehensive financial plan and personal objectives.

  • To begin, contact us via phone or email. We will get back to you within 24 hours. Please include the name of your introducer, as we like to extend our gratitude for referrals. We look forward to assisting you on your financial journey.

CLIENT ONBOARDING CHECKLIST

  1. Most Recent Paystub (Two Most Recent Preferred).

  2. Mortgage statement, or balance/payment/interest rate information.

  3. Statements for all investment accounts with holdings information (Please send the available investment options for your employer retirement plan).

  4. Balance of cash in the bank.

  5. Most recent tax returns.

  6. Social Security benefits estimate (available from www.ssa.gov).

  7. Your date of birth.

  8. Benefit elections from your employer, including any group insurance benefits and pension information.

  9. Information on any personally owned life, disability, and long-term care insurance policies.

  10. For your expenses, do you have any idea what an average month looks like, excluding income taxes and your mortgage?

QUESTIONS? LET’S TALK.