FAQs

Answers to common questions about eParaplanner's outsourced paraplanning services, pricing, software, tax planning, turnaround times and firm fit.

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How do I start working with you?

Let's start with a discovery call to discuss your needs and determine if we're a good fit. If we decide to move forward, I'll provide my independent contractor agreement for review and signature. A brief background check is required before we begin any client work.

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How do you work with advisors?

I work directly with advisors on financial plan preparation, modeling, tax planning, research and the deliverables behind their client recommendations. I adapt to your firm's existing planning process and technology rather than asking you to adopt mine.

Together, we'll create a collaborative process that can be refined as we work together.

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What types of firms do you work with?

I work exclusively with independent, fee-only RIAs with no broker-dealer affiliation. Broker-dealer compliance requirements are generally incompatible with how I operate as an independent contractor, so I don't work with firms that have a broker-dealer relationship.

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Do you require a signed contract?

Yes. I work with advisors under an independent contractor agreement. New engagements typically begin with a three-month trial period so we can make sure we're a good fit before moving into a longer-term agreement. Either party can cancel with 10 days' notice.

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What kind of experience do you bring to the work?

I'm a CFP® professional and Enrolled Agent with more than 20 years of professional tax experience, including experience at two Big Four CPA firms. That background is especially useful when a planning case has a tax issue, an unusual fact pattern, or simply needs another experienced set of eyes.

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Will you meet or communicate with my clients?

I don't attend your client meetings or communicate directly with your clients. However, I do meet with you. I'm available for video calls during onboarding, project kickoffs, and anytime we need to talk through a complex case together. I'm behind the scenes with your clients, but side-by-side with you.

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How long have you been providing outsourced planning services?

I founded eParaplanner in 2018, shortly after earning my CFP® certification. Since then, I've worked with fee-only RIAs on financial plan preparation, scenario modeling, tax planning and projections, technical research, and other planning analysis.

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What happens to unused hours?

Unused hours do not roll over. I provide mid-month courtesy reminders of any unused hours so that you have time to assign more work before month's end.

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How do you track time?

I track my time in six-minute increments (0.1 hour) and provide detailed invoices showing the work completed and the time spent on each task.

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How do you handle capacity and what happens if you're unavailable?

I intentionally limit my client roster so I can provide consistent service to each firm I work with. I communicate planned time away well in advance so you can schedule projects accordingly. If an unexpected situation affects a project deadline, I'll let you know as soon as possible so we can determine the best next step.

The best safeguard is the working relationship we build together. Advisors who distribute work consistently throughout the month rather than in last-minute bursts experience the smoothest workflow and are rarely impacted by capacity constraints.

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Which financial planning software do you use?

I work primarily in eMoney and RightCapital. For situations that require modeling outside the planning software, I also build custom calculations and workpapers in Excel or Google Sheets. Note: Your firm will need to secure a support planner license for your financial planning software and provide separate user access for me (never shared passwords).

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What tax planning software do you use?

I regularly work in Holistiplan and also have experience with professional tax planning and tax preparation software. If your firm uses a different tax tool, I'm generally comfortable learning and working within your existing setup.

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What access will I need to provide?

Your firm will need to provide me with a support license or user seat for the financial planning software you use. I do not maintain my own licenses to eMoney or RightCapital. You'll also need to provide access to any other tools, client data, and documents needed to complete the work.
Provide individual login credentials—never shared passwords—to maintain security best practices.

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Do you prepare tax returns?

I can assist with tax return preparation when it is part of an ongoing relationship with an RIA that offers tax preparation to its clients. I do not offer standalone tax preparation services. Important: Since eParaplanner does not carry E&O insurance for tax prep services, the advisor must sign all tax returns.

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How do you handle sensitive client data?

I prioritize safeguarding your clients' sensitive and confidential information. As an IRS Enrolled Agent, I maintain a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) and confirm compliance annually with the IRS. I'm happy to share my WISP with you upon request.

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Are you a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)?

No. I operate as an independent contractor providing outsourced financial planning and tax planning support services. You remain the advisor of record and retain responsibility for all client recommendations and advice.

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What is your pricing?

My rate is $125 per hour, with a minimum commitment of 10 hours per month. Unused hours do not roll over to the following month.

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Can I change my monthly minimum?

Your monthly minimum is set for the term of your contract and can be changed at renewal. If your needs change, we can discuss a different monthly commitment when it's time to renew.

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What is your typical turnaround time?

I ask for 8 to 14 calendar days to complete most projects. This allows time for document review, analysis, and preparation of supporting workpapers and deliverables.

Rush projects may be accommodated when my schedule permits. If you have a time-sensitive need, just ask. I'm happy to let you know if I can fit it in.

I'll confirm the expected delivery date when you submit each project and will reach out promptly if any questions arise during my review.

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What kinds of work can I send you?

You can send me financial plan preparation and updates, scenario modeling, tax planning and projections, technical research, and other analysis that supports your client recommendations. I can work on a complete planning case or step in for a specific piece of the analysis when you need additional capacity or expertise. My work is focused on financial planning and tax-related analysis rather than administrative support.

Think we might be a good fit?

If you’ve made it this far and what you’ve read sounds like what your firm needs, let’s talk.