Frequently
Asked Questions
What is fee-based financial planning, and how is it different from traditional financial advising?
Fee-based financial planning means we charge a flat fee for our services, unlike commission-based advisors who earn money by selling financial products. This ensures that the advice you receive is unbiased, personalized, and always in your best interest. Our goal is to provide expert guidance without any conflicts of interest.
Why should I pay for financial advice when others offer it for free?
Paying for financial advice ensures that the guidance you receive is unbiased, personalized, and tailored specifically to your needs. Free advice often comes from advisors who are compensated through commissions from selling financial products, which can create a conflict of interest. At InGauged Financial, as fee-based planners, our only priority is you—your goals, your concerns, and your financial success.
You are also investing in a relationship with someone who will take the time to deeply understand your financial situation and provide solutions that align with your best interests, not just push products. With a transparent fee structure, you can trust that the recommendations we make are designed to help you achieve true financial freedom.
What does a real Financial Plan look like?
A real financial plan is more than just a collection of numbers and investment recommendations—it’s a comprehensive, personalized roadmap for your financial future. At InGauged Financial, a genuine financial plan includes:
- Goal Setting: Aligning your financial choices with your life goals, whether it’s buying a home, sending your kids to college, or taking that dream vacation.
- Cash Flow Management: Analyzing your income, expenses, and savings to ensure you’re living within your means while building wealth for the future.
- Tax Optimization: Strategies to minimize your tax liability, so you can keep more of your hard-earned money.
- Retirement Planning: Clear steps to ensure you’re financially prepared to retire comfortably, based on your specific lifestyle goals.
- Risk Management: Reviewing your insurance needs and contingency plans to ensure you’re protected against unexpected events.
A real financial plan is actionable, measurable, and flexible. It evolves with you as your life changes, giving you the confidence and clarity to make informed decisions at every stage. It’s not just about investments—it’s about creating a framework to help you achieve the life you want.
How does your financial planning process work?
Our process begins with an initial discovery meeting where we discuss your financial goals and any challenges you’re facing. From there, we develop a customized financial plan that focuses on cash flow management, tax optimization, and smart money decisions to achieve both your short-term and long-term goals. Once the plan is in place, we work together over 11 months to implement it, and we provide on-going support to ensure you stay on track for as long as you need.
Will I be locked into a long-term contract?
No, after the first twelve (12) months of working together, you’re free to choose a month-to-month support plan. This flexible arrangement ensures you get the help you need, when you need it, without any long-term commitments.
What types of clients do you work with?
We specialize in working with Canadian families who are navigating the challenges of building a life in Canada, managing taxes, and preparing for the future. Our expertise helps families develop a better relationship with money and plan for both short-term and long-term goals. Our clients love that we are transparent with our fees and they value the accountability from the on-going support.
Is there a minimum before I can become a client?
No, there’s no minimum financial requirement to become our client. We are not your traditional asset-management advisor, we believe in helping Canadian families at all stages of their financial journey, whether you’re just starting out or already well-established. Our goal is to help you build a strong foundation, no matter where you are today.
What happens during the implementation process, and what if I need someone to manage my investments or help me with my insurance solutions?
During the implementation process, we work closely together to put your financial plan into action. This includes executing the strategies we’ve developed, adjusting your cash flow, optimizing your tax situation, and preparing for retirement.
If you need assistance with managing investments or finding the right insurance solutions, we can also help with those areas as a separate arrangement. This additional support complements the comprehensive planning we’re doing together. Ultimately, it’s your choice whether you want us to implement these solutions with you, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident in every decision.
How do I get started?
It’s easy! Simply book an initial consultation with us to discuss your financial situation and what you’d like to achieve. During this first meeting, we’ll explore how our services can help you build a strong financial foundation and move you closer to your goals.