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Common Questions

I work with retirees and pre-retirees, professionals, and business owners who want a thoughtful, long-term approach to managing their investments. Many of my clients come from civil service backgrounds, police, corrections, education, sanitation—as well as local business owners and families on Long Island. I also work with people who have received an inheritance, lost a spouse, recently divorced, or are facing other significant life changes. If you're thinking about how to turn savings into a durable retirement income plan, you're likely a good fit.

That's very common. I can review your existing accounts, explain how they're invested and what you're paying, and discuss whether transferring some or all of them makes sense. Any changes are done in a deliberate, step-by-step way so you stay comfortable throughout the process.

I provide ongoing investment management of your investment accounts. During our initial conversation, we can discuss which structure best fits what you're trying to accomplish. I don't do one-time financial plans that are separate from investment management, but I do provide comprehensive advice and guidance as part of the ongoing relationship.

Yes. Many new clients come to me with multiple old 401(k)s, IRAs, or inherited IRAs. I help you evaluate your options—leaving them where they are, rolling to an IRA, or consolidating accounts—and how each choice affects fees, investment options, and your long-term tax planning.

No. Today, most custodians allow for a smooth transfer process that doesn't require you to speak with your old advisor. I will handle the transfer paperwork and coordinate directly with the custodian to move your accounts over securely and efficiently. I understand that many people prefer to avoid that conversation, and I will make the process as seamless as possible for you.

No. While I am based on Long Island and primarily serve local families, I utilize a secure digital platform to work with clients nationwide.

I have selected Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. to serve as the independent third-party custodian for my clients' accounts. First Shelbourne is a fully independent Registered Investment Advisor; not employees of, or affiliated with, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., who serves solely as our third-party custodian.

My fee for investment management is 0.50% (half of one percent) of your account value per year. This fee is broken down into four quarterly payments of 0.125% each that gets deducted directly from the investment account. This ensures that you are only paying for the exact time your assets are under my management. I bill in arrears, meaning you are only charged after the service for that quarter has been completed.

I am truly independent and don't work under the wrapper of a corporate parent that takes a cut of the fees. Since I work from a home office, I don't have expensive city-center real estate costs that you end up paying for.

No. There is no cost for this initial meeting. It is simply a conversation to get to know each other, discuss your goals, and see if we are a good fit. There is no obligation, and you are under no pressure to make any decisions during that meeting,

My standard minimum investment for a new client is $200,000.

The first meeting is simply a conversation—either in my Commack home office or via video. We'll talk about your goals, your current accounts, and any concerns you have. There's no obligation, no paperwork to sign, and nothing to buy in that meeting.

Yes. Many individuals earned their pensions or built their careers in New York and later moved to other states. We can meet virtually and continue to plan around your NY-based benefits and accounts even if you no longer live on Long Island.

Yes. I am registered in the State of New York. To ensure the highest level of security and professional accountability, I maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including errors & omissions (E&O) and cyber liability insurance.