231.421.7711

How We Helped Pam
Overcome Her Husband’s
Loss & Get On Track

The Story

Pam unexpectedly lost her husband at 61. Suddenly alone and facing an uncertain future, she knew she needed to assess her financial situation, but the task felt daunting. With two homes, assets held in several locations, and competing financial priorities, she needed guidance from a professional she could trust. Pam was referred to us by an existing client, who knew we would take care of her and help her through this challenging part of her life.

Her most pressing questions were:

  • Will I have enough money to maintain my current lifestyle?
  • Should I start drawing my Social Security now or later?
  • Will I be able to help cover my grandchildren’s education costs?

The Challenge

  • Not knowing where to start, Pam was eager to find a partner to help
  • Pam’s husband had always managed their finances, leaving her overwhelmed by all of the decisions she now faced on her own.
  • With three adult children and four grandchildren, Pam needed guidance to get through this difficult time while keeping her family’s future in mind
  • Her current advisor had worked primarily with her husband and used financial jargon that left her feeling disconnected.  She wanted to work with someone who would be there for her, help her understand what she has, and work with her to coordinate her entire financial picture

Our Approach

Guiding her every step of the way, we helped Pam get
organized and establish a plan by:
  • Organizing her investment assets in a simplified and understandable way
  • Coordinating her estate and incorporating a consistent college funding strategy to help secure her family’s future
  • Providing a consistent income from her portfolio that was sustainable for the foreseeable future and coordinating Social Security that maximized her benefits

Pam’s Results

Pam now has peace of mind knowing her financial picture is secured as she moves into the next phase of her life, thanks to a long-term partner she can rely on to help her through all financial matters.

After working with us, Pam:
  • Significantly reduced investment fees by consolidating and simplifying her accounts
  • Saved thousands of dollars through tax planning and working with a coordinated tax advisor who amended previous tax returns
  • Consulted with us to find and purchase a new car, taking an important step toward independence

The above hypothetical example story is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation.
It does not involve an actual client and may not be representative of your experience.

Explore Additional Tips & Insights

Preparing the Next Generation(s) for Family Wealth

Over the next few decades, an extraordinary amount of wealth will move from older to younger generations. Often called the ...

Read More

November 2025 Insights: Build a legacy through meaningful holiday giving

As the holiday season approaches, we’re reminded how grateful we are for the wonderful families we serve across Northern Michigan ...

Read More

Investing in Their Future: 4 Smart Financial Gifts for Kids and Grandkids

Finding the right gift for kids and grandkids isn’t always easy. Toys break, trends change, and clothes are quickly outgrown. ...

Read More

Would You Like to Have a
Conversation?

We're committed to your financial well-being, taking the time to
get to know you and guide you toward financial security.