Are you a fiduciary?
Sure am! This means I put your interests ahead of my own at all times. Not only do I feel a personal obligation to do so, but I have an ethical and legal obligation to as well. To learn more about what it means to be a Certified Financial Planner™, check out the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct.
What is your investment philosophy?
I don’t believe in trying to time the market or even trying to beat it. I focus on low-cost index-based funds and pair them with a thoughtful review of your financial goals to develop a personalized strategy. For clients who value socially-conscious investing, I also offer sustainable and impact-focused options.
How do you make money?
I charge a subscription for ongoing financial planning. I have two optional services along with the subscription: investment management at a rate of .25% of the investment account value annually (billed quarterly) and tax preparation services. I don’t make any commissions or referral fees, ever. I’m a proud member of NAPFA, an organization of fee-only financial planners.
Do you work with LGTBQ+ clients? Yes! I’m proud to work with clients of all identities and backgrounds, and I’m especially committed to creating a safe, affirming space for LGTBQ+ individuals and families.
I’m interested in working with you. What is the process?
Before signing up, let’s get to know each other. We’ll start with a 45-minute introductory meeting to chat about what’s going on in your life and how I can help. After that, I’ll share a quote for financial planning services, and you decide from there if you’re ready to jump in.
What happens after I sign up?
I get to work! There’s a small discovery process to gather your financial information. I use a program called Right Capital to help with this process. In the first month, we’ll have two meetings: a review of your financial resources, and a cash flow meeting.
We’ll meet quarterly after that to cover key planning topics and decisions. At the end of each meeting, we’ll schedule our next call and outline the topics we’ll focus on.
What will we talk about?
If it touches your financial life, we’re going to talk about it. Common topics include managing expenses, saving for retirement and big purchases, how to invest your money, reviewing different types of insurance coverage, and going over your employee benefits. Maybe a few discussions on the latest Disney+ show, if you’re a fellow nerd 🙂
What if something comes up in between meetings?
To quote a Chicago kid cooler than me, life moves at you pretty fast. I’m here if you need me. Sometimes that means us emailing about a new issue, and sometimes we need to hop on a call.
Who were your heroes growing up?
In no particular order: Dana Scully, Leia Organa, Amelia Earhart, Dr. Ellie Sattler, Bob Ballard. I’m a 90s kid all the way.
What are some other ways I can learn more about you before reaching out?
You can find me on LinkedIn and my business Facebook page. I post sporadically on BlueSky (@JessicaGoedtel.bsky.social) but be warned, my tweets range from issues in the financial planning industry to burning down the patriarchy, with a few pet photos in between.
