Hourly and Flat-Fee Financial Planning

A Clearer Way to Plan for Retirement

You’ve done the work — saved, invested, and built the foundation for retirement. But even the most capable investor reaches a point where they want an expert to confirm they’re on the right path.

At Focus Planning Group, we offer fee-only financial planning either by the hour or as a flat-fee project for individuals who want expert, objective advice without relinquishing control over their finances.

Our approach is simple: real financial planning, without sales pitches.

Why Work with a Fiduciary Who Charges by the Hour or Flat Fee

Most advisors charge a fee based on the size of your portfolio (including us), known as an AUM (Assets Under Management) fee. It’s common, but we’ve realized it doesn’t fit everyone.

Hourly and flat-fee planning lets you:

  • Pay only for what you need. No ongoing commitment.
  • Stay in control. Your accounts remain in your name and under your direction.
  • Get objective advice. No products, commissions, or incentives.
  • Meet when you want. Annual reviews or one-time check-ins, it’s up to you.

This approach works especially well for investors who prefer independence, yet value a professional’s perspective on key decisions.

What You Can Expect from an Hourly Financial Advisor

Every client’s needs are unique, but most sessions focus on making sure your strategy supports the life you want.

We help clients answer questions like:

“When can I start taking distributions and how much?”

“Should I delay Social Security or start collecting?”

“How do Roth conversions and RMDs fit into my tax plan?”

“Should I own bonds in retirement?”

“Should I look to harvest my capital gains or do a Roth Conversion?”

“How do I balance retirement income with legacy goals?”

“I’ve run the numbers, but did I do this right?”

You’ll receive a written summary after our meeting with direct, actionable recommendations you can implement immediately.

How the Process Works

Step 1:

Schedule a Complimentary Intro Call

We begin with a brief 15-minute conversation to understand your goals and determine if this model aligns with your needs. There’s no prep or pressure, just clarity on next steps.

Step 2:

Choose Your Planning Format

You Can Choose Between:

– Hourly Planning: $300 per hour
For focused help on a specific topic: investment review, tax planning, or retirement.

-The Focus on Retirement Blueprint System: $3,750
We help you stop worrying and start living by breaking down complex retirement decisions into simple, actionable steps.

Step 3:

Meet and Review Your Plan

We’ll meet via Zoom to review your full financial picture and discuss strategies that align with your goals. You’ll walk away with a written action plan, clear next steps you can take on your own or with your accountant.

Step 4:

Ongoing Support, Only When You Want It

There’s no retainer, no lock-in. Many clients check in annually or as life changes occur, such as retirement, inheritance, home sale, or business transition. You decide when it’s time for another review.

Hourly Retirement Planning Case Study

James and Tricia came to me after managing their own investments for decades. They weren’t looking to hand off control; he just wanted an experienced CFP Professional® to review their plan, double-check their tax strategy, and confirm that retirement was sustainable.

We met for three hours to review their portfolio allocation, withdrawal rates, and Social Security timing. They left with written recommendations and the confidence that their plan worked. No ongoing fees. No commitment. Just the professional advice they needed.

Who This Type of Planning Is Best For

  • DIY investors who want an independent review.
  • Pre-retirees and retirees who want confirmation that their plan works.
  • Families balancing saving, debt, and future goals.
  • Anyone who wants expertise without ongoing fees or pressure.

You stay in control, we provide clarity and perspective.

See What our Hourly and Flat Fee Financial Planning Clients Are Saying About Us

  • Great experience with Joe

    I was looking for an advisor to help me with a retirement withdrawal plan and trying to avoid a hard sell for investments or packaged services I didn’t need. Joe was responsive, very knowledgeable, and gave me just what I needed and nothing more. It’s been a pleasure dealing with Joe.
    Alec H.
    July 25, 2025

Why Clients Choose Focus Planning Group

For over 25 years, we’ve helped clients simplify their financial decisions and approach retirement with confidence. Our philosophy is what we call Elegant Simplicity, which helps you see the big picture clearly and make informed decisions without unnecessary complexity.

As a fee-only fiduciary, our only goal is to help you make the best possible choices for your future.

You’ll get professional advice that’s accessible, practical, and rooted in decades of experience.

Joseph Carbone CFP® providing financial advice

Book Your Free Intro Call to See if We’re a Good Fit!

In just 15 minutes, we’ll assess your specific situation and determine if it’s the right fit. It’s completely complimentary.

This is a no pressure call where you don’t need to prepare. It’s for folks who wants clear direction and answers to their retirement questions. Fill out the form and book a time that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, of course. Our firm is structured to work with clients virtually all across the country.

Our hourly rate is $300, billed in 15-minute increments. You’ll know the cost before we start, and there are no additional charges unless you choose to schedule more time. 🙂

We primarily work with individuals aged 50 and older who seek clarity and confidence as they transition into retirement. This is when financial decisions can feel overwhelming, and our job is to simplify the process so you can focus on enjoying life.

Hourly planning is ideal for specific questions or a focused review. Flat-fee planning covers every area of your finances and includes our Focus on Retirement Blueprint System.

Absolutely not. We understand that times are changing, and some folks want only an advice relationship. For the people who prefer to work with us on an hourly or flat-fee basis, handle their own investments, and come back for periodic reviews.

You may only be interested in tackling one or two projects/topics; we offer an hourly service to get you on track. We charge $300 per hour, billed in 15-minute increments.

Wait, so I can hire you to review my current investments and finances without managing my money or paying for a “plan”? Can I just pay you to ask questions and give me advice? Yup, that’s exactly correct! 😁