A: Financial Planning is a multi-step process that provides you with two important things: (1) an in-depth overview of your current financial situation, and (2) a blueprint that shows you how to achieve your goals and objectives for the future. At Zito Financial, we recognize that Financial Planning is process, not an event. We take the time to review your situation and work with you to achieve your goals.

A: First, we discuss your goals, objectives, priorities and values. We want to know you on a personal level and understand your communication and investing styles. The reduction of current and future tax liabilities may be an immediate goal. Funding a quality education for your children or grandchildren may be an intermediate goal. And enjoying a secure financial future during retirement is likely to be one of your most important long-term goals. For many, a creating wealth and leaving a legacy for their beneficiaries or charities may be a goal. At Zito Financial, we can help you meet these objectives by assessing whether you need a new strategy, professional insight, or simply to fine-tune your existing plan. We will create an in-depth strategy that focuses on cash flow, investments, taxes, pensions or retirement plans, estate planning, insurance issues, savings opportunities and other financial matters.

A: Any individual seeking financial peace of mind can benefit from our services. We serve people at all income levels. Our clients have the flexibility to work with us on a one-time, as-needed basis, or on an ongoing basis. We welcome clients who simply need a one-time financial consultation or a second opinion, as well as those who need comprehensive financial planning. In addition, any corporation or organization seeking quality, unbiased financial education for their employees or members can benefit from our financial education programs.

A: No. Although a comprehensive financial plan can provide the greatest benefits, we can tailor our services to your specific needs, such as cash management and budgeting, investment analysis or college education funding.

A: Absolutely. Some firms have income or net worth minimum requirements. At Zito Financial, we recognize that everyone has financial needs. We are proud to work with people of all income levels, with great variances in net worth and investible assets.

A: Our advisors hold Series 7 (General Securities) licenses. This allows us to work with and provide advice for all types of securities, including mutual funds, stocks (as they relate to your portfolio holdings), bonds, bank deposits, variable and fixed annuities. We also provide advice on mortgages, budgeting and cash flow issues, 401(k), 403(b) and other retirement programs, stock options, life and disability insurance needs, etc. If it has to do with money and finances, we can provide counseling, guidance and resources for you. Clients are encouraged to call us when they have a major life event, such as a new job, a baby, a marriage, plans to buy a new home or start a business. We also encourage our clients to call us with more common everyday questions, such as: ‘How should I invest within my 401(k) plan?’, or ‘How can I reduce my tax liability?’

A: At Zito Financial, we believe in the following fundamental principals with regard to designing an investment portfolio and making specific recommendations: the purpose of a client’s portfolio is to fund current and future financial objectives. The design of the portfolio must take into account the client’s financial objectives, tolerance for risk, needs for current income or liquidity, and special considerations such as income and estate taxes. The important thing to remember is that no one can predict the future. We believe that studying historic trends and relationships of investment classes, and the philosophies and approaches of successful investment managers, can provide valuable insight. The appropriate allocation of investment assets for your goals and risk tolerance is the most important component in developing an investment portfolio. We believe that having a diversified, well-balanced portfolio, following long-term buy-and-hold strategies, and having patience will increase the likelihood that one will achieve their long-term financial objectives.

A: Before we recommend any investment, we consider the current economic conditions, the outlook for that asset class or type of security, and how this investment fits within your portfolio, given your objectives and risk tolerance. As fiduciaries for our clients, we strive to obtain the most appropriate investment vehicles to meet your objectives, while being very conscious of total expenses and risk exposure. We also pride ourselves on the research we engage in to find good products offered by stable companies.

A: Because Financial Planning is a process, we offer ongoing services, periodic reviews, and day-to-day consultation as requested or needed.