Advisory fees
One flat fee. Everything included.
Your fee doesn't grow because the market did, and it doesn't follow your account balance around. One number, agreed up front, covering all of it.
For a couple
$12,000
flat, per year
Billed quarterly
For an individual
$10,500
flat, per year
Billed quarterly
Fees are billed quarterly in advance from managed accounts at Altruist. The first billing period is prorated. Fees may adjust annually with CPI-U. A material increase in complexity may also change the fee. Any change is provided in writing before it takes effect.
Why we don't charge a percentage
Why a flat fee?
A larger portfolio doesn't always require more planning work. So we price the relationship and the plan, not the size of your account — one flat fee, whatever your balance.
A flat fee also keeps our advice aligned with your life. Whether the right move is a Roth conversion, paying off the mortgage, setting aside money for family, holding more cash, or adding an annuity, every recommendation rests on one question: does this fit your retirement? Our advisory fee stays the same as your account grows. We disclose other compensation before you act.
The comparison
If you're paying a percentage today, what is it actually costing you?
This table shows what common percentage fees equal in dollars compared with our current couples fee.
| Portfolio value | 0.5% fee | 1.0% fee | 1.5% fee | Our flat fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,000,000 | $5,000 | $10,000 | $15,000 | $12,000 |
| $2,000,000 | $10,000 | $20,000 | $30,000 | $12,000 |
| $3,000,000 | $15,000 | $30,000 | $45,000 | $12,000 |
| $4,000,000 | $20,000 | $40,000 | $60,000 | $12,000 |
| $5,000,000 | $25,000 | $50,000 | $75,000 | $12,000 |
| $10,000,000 | $50,000 | $100,000 | $150,000 | $12,000 |
The table uses the current $12,000 couples fee. The current individual fee is $10,500.
At $1 million, our couples fee is $2,000 more than a 1% fee. At $3 million, it is $18,000 less than a 1% fee and $3,000 less than a 0.5% fee. Percentage rates and services vary by advisor.
What's included
One fee covers the full relationship.
Retirement income planning, investment management, tax planning, insurance planning, and estate planning coordination are included.
We meet formally in spring and fall. Between meetings, you can reach us by phone or email as questions and decisions come up.
No separate charge for planning versus investment management. No hourly meter.
Any other costs?
The funds in your portfolio carry their own expenses, which vary by strategy. We show you every cost before we start. Nothing is paid to us by any fund.
How are annuities paid for?
If an annuity belongs in your plan and you put it in place through us, the insurer pays a one-time commission, disclosed before you sign. Every quote we show is net of it. You're free to buy through anyone you choose.
Is a flat fee right for me?
Whether a flat fee is less expensive depends on the percentage fee you are comparing it with. At $1 million, our fee may cost more. As assets grow, a flat fee often becomes more competitive. We will show you the comparison before you decide.
Can I cancel?
Yes. No long-term contracts. Either party can end the engagement with 30 days' written notice, and fees settle pro rata.
When do fees start?
After you sign and we begin. The first quarter is pro-rated.
Our complete fee schedule and Form ADV Part 2 Brochure are available via the Form ADV link in the footer or at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Want to compare what you pay today?
Schedule a complimentary 30-minute conversation. We will explain the fee before you make any decision.
Or reach out to Doug directly by sending him an email at doug@financialthinkingpartner.com.