Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a fiduciary advisor?
Yes. We are a fiduciary advisor. This means that we act in your best interests, avoid conflicts of interest, and fulfill our duties with transparency and integrity.
What services do you provide?
We provide comprehensive financial services, including financial planning, investment management, tax-efficient strategies, retirement income planning, and estate coordination.
What is your fee structure?
We offer a flat financial planning fee or a percentage of assets under management. We believe in keeping fees transparent, and you’ll always know the cost before we begin any work.
What are your credentials and qualifications?
Lori Ellingson, our chief investment executive and founder of Agate Financial Partners, has over 30 years of experience in financial services. She is a licensed Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), serving clients in Oregon (#251162), California (#0C92075), and Washington (#1007505).
Do you work virtually or only in Oregon?
We serve clients virtually in Oregon (#251162), California (#0C92075), and Washington (#1007505).
How will our relationship work?
We believe in transparency in all aspects of our business relationship. We tailor our services to meet your financial goals and needs, with clear timelines and ongoing check-ins.
We typically schedule quarterly or semi-annual meetings and check in whenever major financial events occur. We also send regular updates during market changes.
What is your process for new clients?
To ensure that we can meet your financial needs, we have a comprehensive onboarding process:
1. Discovery Call - We start with a complimentary 15-minute chat to learn about your financial goals.
2. Planning Session - We then review your current financial position.
3. Proposal - Once we’ve received all necessary information, we’ll provide a clear outline of services, fees, and timeline.
4. Implementation and Review - We’ll help you stay on track with ongoing advice and regular check-ins.
When do I need a financial planner?
A financial planner helps with more than investment and tax strategies. A financial planner can help navigate overwhelming or high-stakes financial decisions. If you need help:
- Clarifying your financial goals
- Planning for your future (retirement or inheritance)
- Creating a proactive tax strategy
- Avoiding market downturns
What are the benefits of hiring a financial planner?
As your financial partner, we build a comprehensive financial strategy tailored to your goals and needs. By managing your portfolio and helping you plan your retirement and estate, you can enjoy the peace of mind that your money is working for you today and in your future with clarity and confidence.
What makes Agate Financial Partners different from other advisors?
We combine professional experience with personal understanding. Over the years, our clients have appreciated our approach, founded in clarity, transparency, and advice tailored to their specific needs and long-term success.
What if I already have an investment account elsewhere?
That’s fine. We can coordinate with your existing providers or manage specific parts of your financial plan.
Do you offer one-time financial plans or ongoing management?
We offer both. Some of our clients prefer a one-time comprehensive plan, while others prefer ongoing management and accountability.
How do you protect my privacy and data?
We use secure, encrypted communication and follow strict compliance standards to safeguard all client information.
What types of clients do you specialize in?
We enjoy working with clients who are ready to collaborate on a well-thought-out financial plan that benefits them now and in the future. We help people who are anticipating a change in their lives, such as getting a new job or starting a family. We specialize in retirement planning.