These questions come up often. If you don’t see yours here, we’re happy to talk it through.
How do I know whether I need a full plan or hourly advice?
If your question is focused and self-contained, hourly advice may be enough. If your decisions are connected—or you’re unsure what to prioritize—a planning project is usually the better place to start. We’ll always tell you honestly which approach makes the most sense.
What does hourly time include, and when does billing apply?
Hourly time includes meetings and any analysis or preparation required to provide advice. Quick clarification questions may not require billing, but anything that involves review, analysis, or professional judgment does. We’re only able to provide advice within an active engagement, so we’ll always confirm scope and time before moving forward.
Do you offer ongoing monitoring or retainer-based planning?
No. We don’t provide continuous monitoring or retainers. Our work is designed to help you gain clarity and confidence, with support available when it’s useful—not constant oversight.
How long does the planning relationship last?
After completing a Financial Planning Project, you may continue working with us on an hourly basis for up to two years. This provides continuity while keeping advice grounded in current information. If you do not seek any advice after your project is complete, you will not be charged.
What happens after our two year contract ends?
If it’s been more than two years since your last planning work with us, we’ll start with a required plan update (typically $1,000 for individuals and $1,400 for couples). This refreshes your goals, assumptions, and projections so advice reflects your current situation.
Do you manage investments or sell financial products?
No. We’re a fee-only, advice-only firm.
What do your fees typically look like?
Financial Planning Projects are offered for a flat fee, based on complexity. Hourly Advice is billed at a flat hourly rate, with time estimated in advance. We’re transparent about costs so you can decide what support is worth it to you.
What if I don’t feel ready or don’t know enough about my finances?
That’s common—and often a good reason to reach out. You don’t need to feel organized or confident to work with us. Our role is to meet you where you are, explain things clearly, and help you make thoughtful decisions without judgment.
Who is Livelihood not a good fit for?
Livelihood may not be a good fit if you’re looking for investment management, day-to-day monitoring, or someone to tell you exactly what to do without conversation or context. Our work is collaborative and designed for people who want to understand their choices—not outsource them entirely.
What does a financial plan look like? Do you give specific advice?
The plan is a clear, written financial roadmap with specific, actionable recommendations. We explain tradeoffs, help you make decisions, and support you in putting the plan into action.
Will you help me implement the recommendations?
Yes. Implementation support happens over Zoom, often with screen sharing, so we can review details, answer questions, and help you move forward step by step.
