The information below explains our standard fee structure for new clients. We separate financial advice into two distinct phases: a planning engagement focused on clarity and decision-making, and an ongoing advisory relationship focused on implementation, stewardship, and ongoing advice.
Phase 1
Planning Engagement Fee
One-time · Most new client relationships begin here
$1,500 – $3,000
Flat, one-time fee · Scope and fee agreed upon in advance
What This Covers
- Goal and priority clarification
- Net worth and cash flow analysis
- Retirement and pension planning
- Tax planning considerations
- Risk management and insurance review
- Estate and beneficiary coordination
- Investment strategy framework
The planning engagement is a defined, finite process. Charging a standalone planning fee ensures advice is not contingent on product implementation, recommendations remain objective, and clients pay only for the work actually performed.
Phase 2
Ongoing Advisory & Investment Management Fee
Assets Under Management (AUM) · Billed monthly in advance
Up to 1.00%
Annually, billed monthly in advance · Negotiable based on asset size and complexity
What This Fee Includes
- Discretionary portfolio management
- Ongoing financial planning and advice
- Portfolio monitoring and rebalancing
- Coordination with tax, legal, and other professionals
- Periodic review meetings and ongoing access
Illustrative Examples
Actual fees are disclosed in your advisory agreement. Fees may be negotiated based on asset size, complexity, scope of services, and related accounts.
Fee Transparency & Flexibility
- All fees are fully disclosed in Form ADV
- Fees are negotiable where appropriate
- Legacy clients may remain under prior agreements
- Clients are never required to change fee arrangements mid-stream
Lower fees for comparable services may be available elsewhere. We encourage prospective clients to compare not just cost, but scope, experience, and alignment of incentives.
Termination & Refunds
- Clients may terminate an advisory agreement within five business days without penalty
- Unearned, prepaid fees are refunded upon termination
- Planning engagements conclude upon delivery of agreed-upon services
Additional Costs
Our fees do not include:
- Custodial fees
- Brokerage commissions
- Transaction charges
- Fund or ETF expense ratios
These costs are disclosed separately by the custodian or product sponsor.
A Final Word on Value
There is no single "right" way to pay for financial advice. What matters most is that:
- Fees are clear
- Services are defined
- Incentives are aligned
- Conflicts are disclosed
Our goal is not to be the cheapest option — it is to provide thoughtful, fiduciary advice aligned with your long-term objectives.
Form ADV and advisory agreements are available upon request and should be reviewed carefully before engaging our services.
Advisory services are offered through ILS Financial, LLC, an Investment Advisor in the State of Nebraska. The fee structure described above represents standard terms for new clients going forward. Individual agreements may vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results.