Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Why Choose LGG Financial?
Curious about how we work, what makes LGG Financial different, or how to plan for retirement with confidence? You’re not alone. We’ve gathered some of the most common questions we hear from individuals and families planning their financial futures. Think of this as a quick conversation—clear, honest answers to help you feel more informed and in control.
Q: What Makes LGG Financial Different From Other Financial Advisors in Bethesda?
Q: Are you a fiduciary or a broker?
A: We are a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor in Bethesda, not tied to any brokerage firm. That means we work solely for you—no commissions, no product sales, no hidden agendas. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), we’re legally required to act in your best interest at all times.
Q: What kind of financial planning do you offer?
A: We provide comprehensive retirement and wealth planning tailored to your specific goals. From investment management and income planning to tax and estate strategies, our approach is deeply personal and fully customized.
Q: How Can I Make Informed Decisions About My Retirement and Financial Future?
Q: Why is it important to ask questions when choosing a financial advisor?
A: Because not all financial advisors operate the same way. Asking the right questions helps ensure you’re working with someone who prioritizes your retirement goals, risk tolerance, and long-term success—not just selling a product.
Q: How do you help clients feel confident about their financial plans?
A: We believe informed clients make better decisions. That’s why we take time to explain every step of the process, educate you on your options, and check in regularly—so your plan evolves with your life
Clarity Builds Confidence
Honest Answers to Help You Feel at Ease
What’s the difference between a fiduciary and a broker?
A fiduciary advisor like LGG Financial is legally bound to act in your best interest. Brokers, by contrast, only have to meet a “suitability” standard, which may not always prioritize your goals. We are fiduciaries and always put your interests first.
How is advice different from transactions?
Brokers often earn commissions from selling financial products. At LGG, we don’t sell products—we provide advice and earn a flat fee based on assets managed. Our focus is on helping you make sound decisions, not selling something.
How transparent are your fees?
Brokers often disclose fees in complex prospectuses. We offer full transparency. You’ll always know what you’re paying and why, thanks to clear conversations and detailed fee reports.
Why does being a small firm matter?
Fewer clients mean stronger relationships. At LGG Financial, you’ll always work directly with our founding partners—David, Brian, and Nancy. Our focus is on you, not marketing or growth campaigns. We’ve grown for over 20 years purely through referrals.
What is an independent financial advisor?
An independent Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) is not tied to any financial institution, fund family, or product provider. This independence allows us to offer truly personalized advice—free from outside pressure or conflicts of interest. As fiduciaries, we’re also held to the highest standard in the industry: we must always act in your best interest.
What does it mean to be a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is someone legally and ethically bound to put your interests first. We must disclose all conflicts of interest (real or potential) and clearly explain how we’re compensated. At LGG Financial, we follow this fiduciary standard at all times—not just because it’s required, but because it’s right.
How is LGG different from other financial advisors?
We combine deep experience with a highly personal, boutique approach. As an independent firm, we serve only you—not a parent company. We handle everything from retirement and investment planning to estate and tax strategies, all under one roof. Best of all, you’ll always work directly with our founding team.
Accordion: Where is my money held?
Your assets are securely held at Schwab Institutional, a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.—one of the most respected custodians in the industry. We never take custody of your funds and only have limited authorization to manage your investments on your behalf.
How do I transfer my accounts to LGG?
It’s easier than you think. We just need your latest account statements and a few signatures. From there, we handle the setup and transfer process with care, making the transition smooth and stress-free.
What WE Do
Still Have Questions?
We’re Just a Conversation Away
Every financial journey is different, and we’re here to help you feel informed every step of the way. If you didn’t find what you were looking for, or want to talk through your specific situation, we’re happy to chat.
Happy Clients
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Our Distinctive Services
Built Around Your Life, Not a Template
LGG Financial strives to provide clients not only with the best advice but with the best experience. We will travel to you, meet halfway, or, you can come to our office. We are able to provide personalized service for all of our clients and accommodate most of our client’s requests. We take time to get to know you. By getting to know our clients, we are able to provide advice that will accommodate their lifestyle and make their plan personalized and easy to follow.