^FAQ
Questions? We've Got Answers.

1. What types of clients do you typically work with?

We work with individuals, families and business owners at different stages of their financial lives. Some are building wealth or preparing for retirement. Others are managing retirement income, business interests or financial responsibilities across generations. We begin by understanding your circumstances and identifying the advice and services appropriate to your needs.

2. How do I know if I need a financial advisor?

An advisor can be helpful when you have questions about retirement, investments, an inheritance or how a business decision could affect your family’s finances. You may also want help organizing the details and understanding your choices. You do not need to have everything figured out before contacting us. An initial conversation can help identify what needs attention and how we may be able to assist.

3. What should I expect during our first meeting?

We will talk about your circumstances, what you are planning for and the questions that brought you to us. You will have an opportunity to learn how we work, ask about services and fees, and discuss whether our team is appropriate for your needs. If we decide to work together, we will explain the next steps.

4. How do you charge for your services?

Costs depend on the services, accounts and investment arrangements involved. Your advisor will explain the applicable advisory fees, account costs and other charges before you decide how to proceed. Tax and accounting services through Coonrod & Associates P.C. have their own engagement terms and fees.

5. What is your investment philosophy?

Our recommendations start with the purpose of your investments and how they fit into your broader financial circumstances. We consider your goals, time horizon, risk tolerance, income needs and tax considerations. Your advisor will explain the recommendations and relevant risks, costs and tradeoffs so you can make an informed decision.

6. How often will we meet or communicate?

Your advisor will discuss review and communication arrangements appropriate to your relationship and the services involved. Between meetings, contact us when you have a question or something changes. Keeping us informed about your circumstances helps us identify whether your plan or account arrangements need attention.

7. Will I have a dedicated point of contact, or will I work with the whole team?

Your financial advisor leads your advisory relationship, supported by operations and client service professionals who help with account needs, scheduling and follow-through. Clients can continue contacting their usual Chatham or Springfield office. The Chatham team is also available to assist Springfield clients when needed.

8. Can you help with retirement planning even if I am still early in my career?

Yes. Retirement planning can begin well before you approach retirement. We can help you consider saving, workplace retirement plans, investment choices and how retirement fits alongside your other responsibilities. The conversation starts with where you are today and what you want to work toward.

9. What's your firm’s approach?

We consider how investments, retirement income, business interests and taxes affect one another. Your personal advisory relationship is supported by operations and client service staff, with access to tax professionals at Coonrod & Associates P.C. Our Chatham and Springfield offices give clients a local connection to people with different areas of experience who can contribute to the work behind their plan.

10. Do I need a particular portfolio size to work with you?

Contact us to discuss your circumstances and the services you need. We will explain any applicable account or program requirements and fees so you can decide whether the relationship is appropriate for you.

11. Can you help with tax-related planning?

Yes. David Coonrod is a CPA, and tax professionals at Coonrod & Associates P.C. support our financial advisors on account decisions and broader client tax considerations.

Tax preparation, tax planning and accounting services are available through separate engagements with Coonrod & Associates P.C. Working with Coonrod Aten Financial Group does not automatically establish a tax-service relationship.

12. What happens if my financial situation changes?

Let your advisor know about changes such as a new job, marriage, retirement, an inheritance or a change in your business or family responsibilities. We can help you consider how those developments affect your financial plan and discuss any decisions or adjustments that need attention.

13. Can I continue working with my current accountant or attorney?

Yes. You may continue working with the professionals you choose. With appropriate permissions, we can coordinate relevant financial planning matters with your accountant or attorney. You may use Coonrod Aten’s advisory services, separately engage Coonrod & Associates P.C. for tax and accounting work, or continue your existing professional relationships.

14. How is my personal and financial information handled?

We follow the privacy policies that apply to your advisory and account relationships. Those policies explain how information is collected, used and shared. If you have questions or need to send account records or other sensitive information, contact our team for the appropriate way to provide it.

15. How do we get started?

Call our Chatham office at (217) 483-4070 or our Springfield office at (217) 679-2047, or send an inquiry through our contact page. Tell us what you would like to discuss, and we will help you reach the appropriate person and explain the next steps.

Tax and accounting services are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial. LPL Financial does not offer tax/legal advice or services. Coonrod & Associates P.C, Coonrad Aten Financial Group and LPL Financial are separate entities.