Category: Business Owners / Self Employed

High Net Worth Financial Planning – What You Need to Know

Posted on by Brian Colvert

High net worth financial planning is essential for preserving, growing, and strategically managing wealth. While having substantial assets may provide financial security, a well-structured financial plan ensures that your wealth aligns with your long-term goals, minimizes tax liabilities, and provides a clear roadmap for investments, estate planning, and risk management.

Many individuals with a high net worth question the need for financial planning because they aren’t worried about running out of money. However, as Brian discusses in The Field Guide podcast, a financial plan is more than just a tool —it is a blueprint for decision-making. It helps ensure that every financial move aligns with broader goals, whether it’s investments, taxes, estate planning, or philanthropy.

Even the wealthiest individuals benefit from a structured approach to their finances. In this guide, we break down why financial planning is essential for high net worth individuals and families, the key components of a strong financial plan, and how working with a fiduciary financial advisor can provide a roadmap to financial security and success.

Listen Now:

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Why Financial Planning Still Matters for Wealthy Individuals

Many assume that because they have substantial assets, they don’t need a financial plan. However, financial planning isn’t just for those worried about running out of money—it’s about making informed decisions, optimizing opportunities, and helping to ensure financial stability across generations.

Here’s why having a customized financial plan is crucial:

1. Ensuring Your Investments Align with Your Goals

A financial plan acts as a roadmap, helping you align your investments with your lifestyle, retirement, and legacy goals. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to make impulsive investment decisions that may not serve your long-term interests.

As Brian mentions, many clients approach him with specific investment ideas—such as buying Bitcoin or allocating more funds into tech stocks like Apple and NVIDIA, or other AI investments. However, without a plan, it’s impossible to determine whether these investments align with personal financial goals. Are you looking to grow wealth aggressively, or are you risk-averse and more focused on wealth preservation? These questions must be addressed before making investment decisions.

2. Managing Risk and Market Volatility

Even wealthy investors need to consider risk management. Market downturns, economic shifts, and unforeseen expenses can impact anyone. A solid financial plan ensures that you have diversified investments and strategies to mitigate risks.

In the podcast, Brian highlights how some investors chase trends without considering whether they can stomach the volatility. For example, Bitcoin may be a great long-term investment, but if a client is highly risk-averse and uncomfortable with large fluctuations in value, it may not be the right fit. A financial plan helps align investment choices with an individual’s risk tolerance and financial objectives.

3. Optimizing Tax Strategies

Those with substantial assets are often in higher tax brackets, making tax-efficient investing and estate planning essential. Without strategic tax planning, you could end up paying significantly more in taxes than necessary.

A good financial plan considers:

  • Which accounts to invest in for tax efficiency
  • When and how to withdraw funds to minimize tax liability.
  • Strategies for charitable giving to optimize deductions.

4. Legacy and Estate Planning 

Wealth preservation isn’t just about making money—it’s about ensuring your assets are passed down effectively. A well-structured estate plan as part of your larger financial plan ensures that your wealth is protected and allocated according to your wishes.

Many individuals fail to update their estate plans, leaving their heirs with unnecessary tax burdens or legal complications.

1,000 adults with over $3 million in investable assets were surveyed and found that only 48% of them had the three most basic planning documents in place: a will, a healthcare proxy and power of attorney. That is a shocking statistic. A financial plan helps you keep estate strategies up to date and aligned with your long-term vision.

5. Philanthropy and Charitable Giving

Many successful individuals want to leave a lasting impact through philanthropy. A financial plan helps structure tax-efficient charitable giving, maximizing the benefits for both you and your chosen causes.

Key Components of a Strong Financial Plan

To maximize and protect your wealth, your financial plan should include the following core components:

1. Investment Strategy & Asset Allocation

Investment planning goes beyond buying stocks and bonds—it’s about building a balanced portfolio tailored to your risk tolerance and financial objectives. Key strategies include:

  • Diversification: Spreading investments across various asset classes to minimize risk.
  • Alternative Investments: Private equity, hedge funds, and real estate can offer unique opportunities for wealth preservation and growth.
  • Tax-Efficient Investing: Using tax-advantaged accounts and strategies to reduce capital gains and income tax burdens.

2. Tax Optimization Strategies

Minimizing tax liabilities is one of the most valuable aspects of financial planning. Strategies include:

  • Tax-Loss Harvesting: Offsetting gains with losses to reduce taxable income.
  • Roth IRA Conversions: Managing income tax liabilities through strategic conversions.
  • Trusts & Charitable Giving: Using donor-advised funds or charitable remainder trusts to reduce tax exposure while fulfilling philanthropic goals.

3. Estate Planning & Wealth Transfer

Estate planning ensures that your assets are passed down efficiently. Key tools include:

  • Revocable & Irrevocable Trusts: Protecting assets from estate taxes and ensuring privacy.
  • Gifting Strategies: Annual gift tax exclusions and family limited partnerships to pass wealth tax-efficiently.
  • Business Succession Planning: If you own a business, structuring a succession plan is critical for maintaining generational wealth.

4. Risk Management & Insurance Planning

Risk management is a crucial component of high net worth financial planning. It ensures that your assets, income, and estate are protected against unforeseen circumstances such as market volatility, lawsuits, health crises, and other financial risks. A well-structured risk management strategy should include the following elements:

  • Asset Protection Strategies: Legal structures such as LLCs and asset protection trusts.
  • Life Insurance Planning: Using permanent life insurance as a tool for estate liquidity and wealth transfer.
  • Long-Term Care & Disability Planning: Ensuring you have adequate coverage in case of unforeseen health issues.

Common Mistakes High Net Worth Individuals Make Without a Financial Plan

Even those with substantial wealth can face financial pitfalls without a well-structured financial plan. Some of the most common mistakes high-net-worth individuals make include:

  • Lack of Investment Strategy: Without a clear investment strategy, individuals may take on excessive risk or miss out on key diversification opportunities. Over-concentration in certain stocks, industries, or asset classes can lead to significant financial losses.
  • Overlooking Tax Efficiency: Many wealthy individuals fail to take advantage of tax-efficient strategies, resulting in unnecessary tax burdens. Without proper planning, they may miss out on deductions, tax-deferred growth opportunities, and estate tax reduction strategies.
  • Neglecting Estate Planning: Failing to have a well-structured estate plan can lead to disputes, excessive estate taxes, and assets not being distributed as intended. A lack of trusts or beneficiary designations can create unintended complications for heirs.
  • Ignoring Risk Management: Wealthy individuals often underestimate risks such as lawsuits, asset protection, and long-term care expenses. Without proper insurance coverage or legal structures, their wealth could be vulnerable to unexpected claims or liabilities.
  • Spending Without a Long-Term Plan: A high income or large net worth does not guarantee financial security if spending habits are unchecked. Without a financial plan, individuals may deplete their wealth faster than expected, jeopardizing long-term goals like legacy planning or philanthropy.
  • Failing to Adapt to Market Changes: Financial markets fluctuate, and tax laws evolve. Without an ongoing financial strategy, individuals may miss opportunities to adjust their portfolios, capitalize on new tax incentives, or navigate economic downturns effectively.
  • Not Working with a Fiduciary Advisor: Many high net worth individuals rely on financial advice from brokers or advisors who may have conflicts of interest. Without a fiduciary advisor, they may receive guidance that prioritizes commissions over their best interests.
    A comprehensive financial plan helps mitigate these risks and ensures that high-net-worth individuals make informed strategic financial decisions. Working with an experienced financial planning team can help preserve wealth, reduce liabilities, and provide peace of mind for the future.

Final Thoughts

Financial planning is essential regardless of wealth level. A structured approach to investment strategy, risk management, tax optimization, and estate planning provides clarity, direction, and the ability to make informed financial decisions that align with long-term goals. Having a financial plan in place not only protects your assets but also allows you to take advantage of opportunities that align with your lifestyle and values.

By regularly reviewing and adjusting your financial plan, you can ensure that it remains relevant as your goals evolve and as financial markets shift. The right high net worth financial planning strategy allows you to build a legacy, protect your family’s future, and make confident financial decisions without unnecessary stress.

Next Steps- Get a Plan

If you’re looking for expert guidance tailored to your financial needs, our team at Bonfire Financial specializes in fiduciary, planning-based strategies designed to optimize your wealth. Contact us today to start building a financial plan that works for you.

Turning High Income into Lasting Wealth: Proven Strategies for High Earners

Posted on by Brian Colvert

Making a High Income Is Just the Beginning

Earning a high income is an incredible advantage, but it doesn’t automatically mean you’re building real wealth. Many high earners—whether doctors, business owners, executives, or professionals—find themselves living an expensive lifestyle without accumulating enough assets to sustain it long-term. Without a strategy, even a seven-figure salary can disappear quickly.

If you’re making $400K, $600K, or even more annually, the key question isn’t how much you make, but what you do with it. This article explores strategies for high earners to maximize their income, build long-term wealth, and avoid financial pitfalls.

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1. Automate Your Savings and Investments

One of the most effective strategies for high earners is automating savings. When money flows into your bank account, it’s easy to spend more than you intend. Automating your savings ensures you consistently put money aside before you even have the chance to spend it.

  • Max Out Your Retirement Accounts: Contribute the maximum allowable amount to your 401(k), IRA, or Roth IRA (if applicable). If you own a business, consider a SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k).
  • Set Up Automatic Transfers to Brokerage Accounts: High earners often hit retirement contribution limits quickly. A taxable brokerage account allows you to invest beyond those limits.
  • Leverage High-Yield Savings for Short-Term Goals: Automate transfers into high-yield savings accounts for planned expenses like vacations, home renovations, or large purchases.

By setting up these transfers to occur automatically, you remove the temptation to spend your entire paycheck and ensure consistent wealth accumulation.

2. Avoid Lifestyle Creep

A common trap for high earners is lifestyle inflation—the tendency to spend more as income increases. It’s easy to justify upgrading homes, cars, and vacations when your paycheck allows for it, but this can leave you with little to show for years of high earnings.

To combat lifestyle creep:

  • Define Your Wealth Goals: What does long-term financial success look like for you? Owning investment properties? Retiring early? Creating a passive income stream?
  • Keep Fixed Expenses in Check: Just because you can afford a bigger mortgage doesn’t mean you should take one. Be mindful of recurring costs like luxury car leases, club memberships, and high-end subscriptions.
  • Invest in Assets, Not Just Status Symbols: A $100,000 car loses value over time. A well-chosen $100,000 investment property generates income and appreciates in value.
    Maintaining a balanced approach to spending allows you to enjoy your wealth while securing your future.

3. Build Multiple Income Streams

Even high earners benefit from diversifying their income sources. Relying solely on a paycheck—even a large one—can leave you financially exposed if your industry changes or your role is impacted.

Consider these income streams:

  • Real Estate Investments: Rental properties provide consistent cash flow and potential appreciation.
  • Private Investments: Opportunities like private equity, venture capital, and angel investing can offer high returns, though they come with risk.
  • Side Businesses: Many professionals create consulting businesses, online courses, or digital products to diversify income.
  • Dividend Stocks and Bonds: A well-structured investment portfolio, specifically with dividend stocks,  generates passive income over time.

Building multiple income streams ensures financial stability and accelerates wealth accumulation.

4. Minimize Taxes Strategically

Taxes can significantly impact your ability to grow wealth. High earners must be proactive about tax planning to retain more of their income.

Key tax strategies for high earners:

  • Maximize Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Contribute to 401(k)s, HSAs, and Roth Conversions where possible.
  • Utilize Tax-Efficient Investments: Invest in municipal bonds, tax-efficient index funds, and real estate with depreciation benefits.
  • Take Advantage of Business Deductions: If you own a business, structure it to maximize deductions and reduce taxable income.
  • Work with a Tax Professional: A tax strategist can help identify deductions, credits, and investment structures that minimize your liability.

By implementing tax-efficient strategies, you can keep more of your earnings working for you.

5. Invest with a Long-Term Mindset

High earners sometimes fall into the trap of chasing quick returns or risky investments. A disciplined, long-term approach to investing is far more effective.

  • Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t put all your wealth into a single stock, business, or asset class.
  • Rebalance Regularly: Adjust your portfolio as market conditions change and your goals evolve.
  • Stay the Course: Market volatility is inevitable, but a long-term strategy yields strong results over time.
  • Invest in What You Understand: Avoid speculative investments unless you have deep knowledge of the space.

A well-structured investment strategy ensures your wealth grows steadily and sustainably.

6. Protect Your Assets and Plan for the Future

Earning and investing wisely is just part of the equation—protecting your wealth is equally important. Many high earners overlook estate planning, asset protection, and risk management.

  • Have Proper Insurance: Ensure you have adequate life, disability, and umbrella liability insurance.
  • Create an Estate Plan: Establishing a will, trusts, and power of attorney documents is crucial for protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out. Proper estate planning helps safeguard your wealth for future generations and provides clarity in managing your financial affairs.
  • Consider Asset Protection Strategies: High earners can be targets for lawsuits—proper legal structures (LLCs, trusts) can shield assets from unnecessary risk.

Planning for the future ensures that your wealth is preserved and passed on according to your wishes.

The Bottom Line:

Earning a high income is an incredible opportunity—but without a plan, it’s easy to end up with little to show for it. By automating savings, avoiding lifestyle creep, diversifying income, minimizing taxes, and investing wisely, you can turn your earnings into lasting wealth.

The key is consistency and discipline. Small, intentional decisions over time lead to big financial outcomes.

If you’re ready to take control of your finances and build real wealth, start implementing these strategies today. And if you’d like expert guidance in setting up a wealth plan tailored to your income and goals, reach out to us today and get the conversation started.

Retirement Planning for Self-Employed Business Owners and 1099 Employees

Posted on by Brian Colvert

Retirement Planning for Self-Employed & 1099 Employees –  Listen to the full episode on the Podcast!

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Today we are addressing a critical topic for self-employed business owners, Independent Contractors and 1099 employees: retirement planning without a company-sponsored plan. In the absence of traditional employer benefits, it’s essential to take proactive steps. We’ll explore various retirement strategies tailored for those who must self-manage their retirement savings, including Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and other investment options.

Understanding the Challenge of Retriemtn for the Self-Employed

For business owners and 1099 employees, the lack of a company-sponsored retirement plan means taking full responsibility for your financial future. While this can seem daunting, it also offers unparalleled control over how you save and invest your money. You decide the best ways to grow your wealth and ensure a comfortable retirement.

Why Retirement Planning is Crucial

Retirement planning is about more than just setting aside money for the future; it’s about creating a stable financial foundation that allows you to maintain your lifestyle and achieve your goals without relying on income from your business or contract work. Effective retirement planning involves assessing your current financial situation, setting realistic goals, and implementing strategies to achieve those goals.

The Power of Solo 401(k)s

One of the most powerful retirement planning tools for self-employed business owners and 1099 employees is the Solo 401(k). This plan is designed for self-employed individuals and independent contractor and offers several benefits:

  1. High Contribution Limits: Solo 401(k)s allow for significant contributions, combining employee deferrals and employer contributions. In 2024, the contribution limit is $23,000 for employees under 50, with an additional $6,500 catch-up contribution for those 50 and over. Employer contributions can bring the total to $69,000 or $76,500 for those 50 and over.
  2. Roth Option: Many Solo 401(k) plans offer a Roth option, allowing after-tax contributions that grow tax-free. This can be particularly advantageous for high-income earners looking to minimize future tax liabilities.
  3. Loan Provision: Solo 401(k)s often include a loan provision, enabling you to borrow from your retirement savings if needed. This feature can provide liquidity without triggering taxes or penalties, as long as the loan is repaid according to the plan’s terms.

>> Click here for this year’s current contribution limits <<

Exploring SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs

SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs are other viable options for self-employed individuals. Both plans have their unique advantages:

  • SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension):
    • Contribution Limits: SEP IRAs allow contributions up to 25% of your net earnings from self-employment, with a maximum limit of $66,000 in 2024.
    • Ease of Administration: SEP IRAs are relatively simple to set up and maintain, making them a popular choice for small business owners.
    • Flexibility: Contributions are flexible and can vary from year to year, which is beneficial for businesses with fluctuating income.
  • SIMPLE IRA (Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees):
    • Employee and Employer Contributions: SIMPLE IRAs allow both employee deferrals and employer contributions. In 2024, employees can defer up to $15,500, with an additional $3,500 catch-up contribution for those 50 and over.
    • Mandatory Employer Contributions: Employers must either match employee contributions up to 3% of compensation or make a fixed contribution of 2% of compensation for all eligible employees.
    • Lower Administrative Costs: SIMPLE IRAs have lower administrative costs compared to 401(k) plans, making them an attractive option for small businesses.

Diversifying Your Investments

Beyond retirement accounts, diversifying your investments is crucial for financial stability. Diversification spreads risk and increases the potential for returns across different asset classes. Here are some ways to diversify:

  1. Stocks and Bonds: Investing in a mix of stocks and bonds can provide growth and income. Stocks offer the potential for capital appreciation, while bonds provide steady income and lower volatility.
  2. Real Estate: Real estate investments can provide rental income and long-term appreciation. Consider investing in residential, commercial, or industrial properties based on your risk tolerance and investment goals.
  3. Private Placements: For those with the expertise and risk tolerance, private placements can offer high returns. Investing in startups or private companies can be lucrative, but it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence.
  4. Cryptocurrency: While more volatile, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin can be part of a diversified portfolio. It’s essential to approach this asset class with caution and only invest what you can afford to lose.

Creating a Safety Net

Building a financial safety net is critical for self-employed business owners and 1099 employees. Here are some strategies to ensure you have a cushion for unexpected events:

  1. Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund with 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses. This fund should be easily accessible and kept in a liquid, low-risk account.
  2. Insurance: Protect your income and assets with appropriate insurance coverage. Consider disability insurance, life insurance, and business insurance to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.
  3. Regular Withdrawals: Establish a routine for withdrawing funds from your business or investment accounts. This ensures you are continually building your safety net and not solely reinvesting all profits back into the business.

Tax Efficiency and Planning

Effective tax planning is essential for maximizing your retirement savings when you are self-employed. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Deferring Income: Take advantage of retirement accounts that offer tax-deferred growth, such as traditional IRAs and Solo 401(k)s. Contributions to these accounts reduce your taxable income in the year they are made.
  2. Roth Conversions: Consider converting traditional retirement accounts to Roth accounts during years when your income is lower. This strategy can result in significant tax savings over time. You can further this strategy with a Backdoor Roth.
  3. Tax-Loss Harvesting: Offset capital gains with capital losses through tax-loss harvesting. This strategy involves selling losing investments to reduce your taxable gains.
  4. Consult a Tax Professional: Work with a tax professional to develop a comprehensive tax strategy tailored to your unique situation. They can help you navigate the complexities of tax laws and identify opportunities for savings.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting realistic retirement goals is essential for creating a workable plan. Here are steps to help you define and achieve your retirement objectives:

  1. Assess Your Current Financial Situation: Take stock of your assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Understanding your financial position is the first step in planning for the future.
  2. Define Your Retirement Lifestyle: Consider the lifestyle you want in retirement. Factor in travel, hobbies, healthcare, and living expenses to determine how much you need to save.
  3. Estimate Retirement Expenses: Calculate your expected expenses in retirement, accounting for inflation and potential changes in your lifestyle. This estimate will guide your savings goals.
  4. Develop a Savings Plan: Create a plan to reach your retirement goals. Determine how much you need to save each year and choose the appropriate retirement accounts and investment strategies to achieve your objectives.
  5. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review your retirement plan and make adjustments as needed. Life changes, market conditions, and new financial goals may require you to update your strategy.

Conclusion

Retirement planning for self-employed business owners, independent contractors and 1099 employees may lack the convenience of a company-sponsored plan, but it offers the advantage of complete control over your financial future. By leveraging tools like Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs, diversifying your investments, creating a safety net, and planning for tax efficiency, you can build a robust retirement strategy. Set realistic goals, stay disciplined, and regularly review your plan to ensure a secure and comfortable retirement. Taking these proactive steps will help you achieve financial peace of mind, knowing you have a well-thought-out financial plan for your future.

Next Steps:

Ready to set up your plan or have questions? Schedule a call with us today! 

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