Frequently Asked Questions

• What is financial planning?
• Do I have to be wealthy to use a financial planner?
• What is the value of a CFP?
• What should I look for in a financial advisor?
• Why is it important to select a fee-only advisor?
• How much does financial planning cost?
• Do I have to buy stocks as part of my financial plan?
• I work during the day. Can we meet outside of office hours?
• What happens at our first meeting?

What is financial planning?

Financial planning is determining the best way to achieve financial success. Whether you want to buy a house, send your kids to college, save for retirement, or take that trip of a lifetime, having a plan is the first step to getting there. Read our case studies to see how Robert A. Mecca & Associates LLC has helped people like you reach their financial goals.

Do I have to be wealthy to use a financial planner?

Actually, the less money you have, the harder and smarter it needs to work. While some financial planners have a "minimum asset level," our customers come from all walks of life. However, having consulted wealthy clients, we can bring that same expertise to you.

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What is the value of a CFP?

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation is your assurance that the person you choose to handle your finances has passed rigorous testing to prove his qualifications.

If you wouldn't trust an unlicensed doctor to take care your physical health, you shouldn't trust a non-CFP with your financial health.

What should I look for in a financial advisor?

The same types of things you would look for in a doctor, lawyer, or other professional:

• degreed with proper credentials to practice in the field
• years of experience working with people like you
• state-of-the-art expertise through continuing education
• the ability and desire to make complex concepts easy to understand
• someone who puts your interests first
• no hidden agenda, no products sold
• someone you can trust, where clients eagerly send referrals

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Why is it important to select a fee-only advisor?

Fee-only advisors are paid for their expertise. Other financial advisors may be paid for selling financial products. With a fee-only advisor you avoid the conflict of interest inherent in someone selling products that may benefit them.

For instance, Bob Mecca frequently recommends no-load mutual funds, so his clients don't pay fund commissions. Other types of advisors may not recommend these funds.

Some financial advisors are now calling themselves "fee-based." This is not the same as fee-only. You should always ask if you are not sure how a financial advisor is paid.

How much does financial planning cost?

High-quality expertise costs money. But, nearly all people who meet with Robert A. Mecca & Associates LLC become clients. Why? Because we identify financial payback opportunities at the very first meeting.

If we cannot demonstrate that our fees are worth paying, you simply don't hire us.

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Do I have to buy stocks as part of my financial plan?

No. As a matter of fact, a large portion of our clients do not own any stocks at all. We work within your risk tolerance to determine the right investments for you.

I work during the day. Can we meet outside of office hours?

Yes. We can meet with you during the day, evenings, or weekends, whenever is most convenient for you. Meetings can be arranged at either of our suburban Chicago locations.

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What happens at our first meeting?

First, Bob Mecca will explain his credentials and qualifications. You are encouraged to ask any questions that would make you feel comfortable. Bob believes that each question is an educational opportunity to give you more control over your own financial future.

Once you are comfortable, you discuss your financial situation and what you would like to achieve.

Then, Bob explains the ways he and his associates can help you and the payback involved in following his advice. He uses his teaching skills to ensure your understanding and further your knowledge of financial matters.

Finally, you decide if Robert A. Mecca & Associates LLC is a good choice to help you meet your financial needs.

Get Answers You Can Trust

Contact us to share your specific questions and concerns. With Bob Mecca's teaching expertise, we're confident that you will learn what you need to know.

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