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Financial Blog
Longer-form articles addressing some of the more complex financial planning, investment, and tax planning issues we frequently address.
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Navigating Your Pre-IPO Stock: A Thoughtful Checklist for Startup Employees
Preparing for your company’s IPO? Discover the essential pre-IPO checklist for employees to understand stock types, tax strategies, lock-up periods, and diversification for lasting wealth.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
1 day ago4 min read


How Executives Can Maximize the Benefits of Their Cash Balance Plan
Maximize the benefits of your cash balance plan as an executive. Discover strategies to accelerate retirement savings, reduce tax burdens, and coordinate with your overall financial plan for lasting security.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Sep 174 min read


From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Demystifying Executive Compensation for High-Income Professionals
Explore thoughtful strategies for managing complex compensation — including deferred pay and equity — to build a clear, actionable financial plan aligned with your goals.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jan 24, 20245 min read


How to Maximize Your Stock Options: A Strategic Guide for Executives
Unlock the full potential of your stock options with expert planning that aligns timing, tax strategy, and risk management. Whether you hold NQSOs or ISOs, thoughtful guidance can help you navigate tax complexities, optimize cash flow, and build lasting wealth with confidence. Learn actionable insights to transform your equity compensation into a strategic financial asset.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jan 10, 20244 min read


What Is a "Financial Advisor"? A Look Inside the Financial Services Industry
There is very little regulation around the title "financial advisor" - so it's critical to understand the potential conflicts of interest.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Sep 20, 20236 min read


How to Maximize Your Spouse’s Social Security Benefits
Since the information on SSA.gov leaves something to be desired, here’s how to maximize your spouse’s benefits.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Aug 22, 20233 min read


Is Combining Finances After Marriage Right For You?
Whether you plan on combining finances after marriage or not, consider the pros and cons of joint bank accounts, merging accounts and more.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jul 25, 20238 min read


Financial Planning for Women by Life Stage
Learn about financial planning for women at each stage of life encountered by most women or their friends over the course of a lifetime.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jul 11, 202311 min read


Top Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor
There are many different factors to consider when choosing a financial advisor. Find the best advisor for you by asking these questions.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jun 27, 20233 min read


Don't Change Jobs Until You Make These Smart Money Moves
Are you thinking about leaving your current employer to start a new job? Make these smart money moves along the way.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
May 24, 20234 min read


Financial Planning for Busy Executives
Business executives have unique financial planning needs. A specialist financial advisor serving this niche can help you achieve your goals.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
May 9, 20235 min read


Financial Planning for Technology Professionals
Technology professionals have unique financial planning needs. A specialist financial advisor serving this niche can help you reach your goa

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Apr 25, 20236 min read


What is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)?
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) has the knowledge, experience and ethics needed to offer sound financial advice to their clients.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Mar 21, 20234 min read


Do You Make Good Money, but You're Not Rich Yet? You Might be a HENRY
Are you a "High Earner Not Rich Yet" (HENRY)? Learn the tools you need to start financially planning for your future and growing your wealth

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Mar 8, 20236 min read


How a Financial Plan Creates Freedom: More Than Just Numbers
Most people who reach out to me have never worked with a financial planner before. They seek clarity and a less stressful path to their goals but feel intimidated by the process. Comprehensive financial planning starts not with numbers, but with understanding what matters most. Together, we craft a personalized roadmap that turns anxiety into confidence and creates freedom through clarity and ongoing partnership.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Feb 4, 20205 min read


The Ghost of Tax Returns Past 😱 – Gaining Perspective on Year-End Tax Planning
Discover how reviewing past tax returns and taking proactive year-end steps can bring clarity, reduce surprises, and strengthen your financial plan.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Nov 6, 20194 min read


Feeling Stuck in Your Financial Planning? How to Regain Momentum and Clarity
Feeling stuck in your financial life? Explore how deep financial planning and intentional choices can help high-achieving professionals regain momentum, set clear goals, and move forward with confidence.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Oct 2, 20194 min read

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