— Why I Do Things Differently

Day two of trying to be more consistent, and I almost didn’t make it…

That said, let’s talk about something close to my heart — personal financial planning. It’s not a topic I always highlight on the blog, but it’s a huge part of what I do at Paul the Advisor, LLC. And frankly, it’s one of my favorite ways to help people.

Why I Started With Personal Financial Planning

My business was founded with one goal in mind: to help people who wouldn’t typically qualify for a financial planner. Most financial planners only work with clients who have $300,000 or more in assets. Their fee structure — usually around 1% of assets under management — means you’re expected to pay at least $3,000 a year for basic service.

That model didn’t sit right with me. In fact, one firm I almost joined charged that minimum fee even if you didn’t have that amount assets. That’s why I built an alternative. I charge $89 per month to help clients create and manage their budget plans — a service grounded in accessibility and transparency.

What’s Included in Personal Financial Planning?

I don’t do investment management — and that’s intentional. It’s how many advisors make their money, but I’ve chosen a different route. While I’m no longer licensed to manage assets, I offer a wide range of services that fall under personal financial planning, including:

• Budget Planning & Cash Flow Management
• Debt Management & Repayment Planning
• Emergency Fund Planning
• Savings Strategy
• Major Purchase Planning
• Tax Planning (non-investment-related)
• Credit Score Review & Rebuilding
• Insurance & Risk Review
• Estate & Document Readiness
• Financial Goal Planning

Each of these services is designed to help you take control of your money — not just grow it. This approach especially benefits my clients in the military or education systems, where pensions, disability, and other benefits make financial planning more complex.

Why I Chose to Stay Fee-Only

Many planners have told me, “But Paul, you could make so much more if you added investment management!” They’re not wrong — but money isn’t my why.

I’d rather help someone build their first emergency fund, eliminate credit card debt, or finally create a savings goal, than assist someone who already has a million-dollar portfolio. To me, real personal financial planning starts where most traditional advisors stop looking — with the people who need the help the most.

Spending Habits Matter More Than Stocks

Here’s the truth most planners won’t say: if you’re not earning enough or spending wisely, it doesn’t matter what your investment returns look like. Controlling your burn rate is often more important than your asset allocation — especially in the early stages.

Once your debt is under control, your budget is balanced, and your savings goals are clearly defined, then we can start thinking about things like mutual funds and stocks. But until then, the priority should be clarity and consistency — not market performance.

How I Support Military Members and Teachers

Teachers and military members face unique challenges. Pensions, disability income, and programs like TRS can make financial planning harder to navigate. That’s where I step in.

With tax planning, I can help guide you on where to open accounts, how to contribute, and how to maximize your benefits — all within the boundaries of what I’m allowed to advise on, legally. I don’t give investment recommendations, but I do make sure your money is moving in the right direction.

Need Personal Financial Planning Support?

I offer affordable, flat-rate monthly services for people who just want clarity, direction, and peace of mind around their money — no wealth required.

Let’s start with a conversation. You don’t need to be wealthy to get professional financial advice. You just need someone willing to meet you where you are.

If you’re not quite ready for meeting, read my last post here!