FAQS
There are no stupid questions, just frequently asked ones.
Financial services aren’t always clear –
We keep it crystal
How is Stash Wealth paid?
We are paid a flat fee, upfront, for conflict-free advice and guidance. Most financial advisors require you to hand over your money so they can invest it as the first step in the relationship without educating you along the way. Instead, we’ll give you all of the benefits of a financial plan (the Stash Plan) for a one-time fee.
After you complete a Stash Plan, you're free to manage everything yourself moving forward. You also have the option to sign up for ongoing support through Stash Management for a 1.2% fee on AUM (the investable assets you bring to Stash Wealth) charged monthly with a $90/month minimum.
How do I work with Stash Wealth?
The first step is to qualify as a HENRY. You can do this one of two ways: 1) take the HENRY Quiz online or 2) book a call with a member of the Stash Wealth team. After qualifying as a HENRY, you are eligible to purchase the Stash Plan online. A welcome email will be sent your way immediately after purchase inviting you to set up your Stashboard. The Stashboard is your hub for the Stash Plan process. After you’ve completed your financial plan (Stash Plan), you are eligible to sign up for ongoing wealth management (Stash Management.)
Is Stash Wealth a robo-advisor?
No. We believe technology should support a human-advisor, not replace them. While we utilize technology, we primarily focus on the education and empowerment of our clients through (virtual) human interaction.
Are the meetings in person?
All meetings are conducted virtually via video chat and involve screen share. We understand that this is a departure from the old-school model where advisors and clients meet in person. Keeping things virtual allows us to serve clients across the country and keep our services accessible to HENRYs. You're welcome to turn your webcam on or off, whatever you prefer.
Stash Plan
Financial Planning at Stash Wealth
Is Stash Wealth a fiduciary?
Yes. As an RIA [registered investment advisor] with no ties to a bank, the firm is subject to SEC and state regulations and abides by the Fiduciary Standard. This means full transparency and no conflicts of interest. Imagine that–advice with your best interest as the top and only priority. Who would’ve thought there’s another option out there?
Are your advisors required to be a CFP®?
While we do have CFPs (Certified Financial Planners) on the team, Stash Wealth uses a proprietary financial planning philosophy and delivery methodology that sits on top of the CFP curriculum and is designed for lifestyle-focused millennial clientele. We believe the traditional CFP methodology works great for retirees and pre-retirees, but not for HENRYs who want to enjoy their lifestyles now, not just in retirement. Learn more.
How long does it take to complete the Stash Plan?
It takes most clients 5-6 weeks to complete the entire process, whether planning alone or with a partner. This includes two virtual meetings, a little data gathering and homework on your end, and a few email exchanges with your planner. The total time commitment averages around 5-6 hours for most people.
Can you help me with my student loans?
Oh yeah. Student loans are a common pain point for our generation, so handling them is one of our specialties. The average HENRY comes to Stash Wealth with approximately $80,000 in student debt. Our planners will help you navigate your plan to pay it off, refinancing, consolidation, and how to manage paydown with future goals.
Stash Plan for Couples
Financial Planning FOR COUPLES
Does the Stash Plan require us to merge our accounts?
There are several reasons why a couple may or may not choose to merge their accounts. We’ll discuss the pros/cons and psychological benefits so you can make informed choices. While merging accounts is not required, we will walk you through Stash Wealth’s philosophy on the topic and figure out a customized approach that makes sense for you and your relationship.
What if my partner doesn’t want to get their [financial] sh*t together?
This is a pretty common situation. You’re pumped to get your money working harder for you, but your partner would rather wing it. When it comes to working with couples, our financial planners are pros. Your job is simply to get your partner on the meeting (this is required if signing up for the Stash Plan for Couples) and you can leave the rest to us. We provide all the motivation, inspiration, and excitement they’ll need to want to get involved.
What if I’m in a relationship but want to do the Stash Plan alone?
You can, but we don’t recommend it. During the process, we will be discussing the basics of your lifestyle and also begin the conversation around goal setting. It tends to be harder to approach these conversations (annual travel, lifestyle, retirement, etc.) as an individual if you’re in a serious relationship. Please note, if you and your partner are in different places financially (one has more debt, one has a higher income, etc.), that’s not a problem - couples almost always are.
Have a few more personalized questions?
Book a call with a team member to talk through the details and learn if Stash Plan is right for you.
Stash Management
Wealth Management at Stash Wealth
What is Stash Management?
Stash Management is our ongoing support option for HENRYs who have completed the Stash Plan. In addition to investment management, Stash Management includes an annual update of your Stash Plan, access to our vetted team of experts, and year-round advice for any of your financial needs. The rest is what a therapist is for.
What does Stash Management cost?
The fee for Stash Management services, including investment management and an annual update to your Stash Plan, is determined by the asset level maintained at Stash Wealth. The formula to calculate fees is 1.2% annually (or 0.1% monthly). The fee is deducted on a monthly basis with a $90/month minimum. If you have over $250,000 in assets, a declining fee schedule is in place.
What is Stash Wealth’s investment philosophy?
We keep it simple and rely on tried and true investment strategies that work. Things like dollar cost averaging, tax loss harvesting, and periodic rebalancing. We dove into the deep end of this question on our Investment Philosophy page.
Are my investment returns guaranteed?
No. Investment returns are never guaranteed. Anyone who tells you otherwise is probably named Madoff. Investing is not putting your money on one race horse and hoping they can pull out a win. That’s gambling. The Stash Plan process helps break down the difference.
Do I have to sign up for Stash Management?
It’s up to you. After completing the Stash Plan, Stash Management is for those who want to delegate the rest of the implementation our way. You are also welcome to manage your plan on your own and revisit us annually or every few years to account for any changes you might be experiencing (i.e. new job, growing family, relationship status update, etc.) No pressure from us either way–whether you delegate or DIY.
My company has a restricted investment list. Can I still sign up?
Because Stash Wealth holds discretion of your investments as part of Stash Management, this satisfies the requirements that most employers have in place. In more stringent situations, we go through a process with you to ensure that Stash Wealth's investment models comply with your firm's requirements.
How long do I have to decide if I want to sign up for Stash Management?
90 days from the date you complete the Stash Plan.