FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I'm not already a client. How can I schedule a meeting with you?
You can schedule an introductory video call or face-to-face meeting using our online scheduler or by calling our office during business hours, whichever you prefer.
What can I expect at our first meeting?
How do you work with non-local clients?
We offer video meetings so we can be virtually face to face with our non-local clients. Between that and online screen sharing, you'll quickly forget that we are not in the same room. In fact, even some of our local clients choose video calls because of the convenience.
What are the pros and cons of working with an advisor remotely?
While some prefer local face-to-face meetings, a remote relationship offers a distinct advantage: uninterrupted continuity. In today’s world, personal and professional moves are common. Partnering with a remote-capable advisor means you don’t have to start over with someone new every time you relocate. Our clients value the familiarity and trust built over many years, knowing their financial partner is with them for the long haul, regardless of zip code. And for those who enjoy the occasional in-person visit, our home in Charleston, SC, offers the perfect backdrop of Southern charm, history, and beautiful beaches.
Will you coordinate with my CPA, estate attorney, and/or insurance agent(s)?
Yes. With your permission, we are glad to coordinate with the other professionals whose work impacts your money life. Also, if you are a local client and would like to meet with your provider at our office for your convenience, just let us know and we'll hold a conference room open for your meeting.
Why don't you wear a suit like most advisors?
Rather than put on a suit and tie, we dress "business casual." We find it to be more conducive to open dialogue, transparency, and real relationships. Every client represents a personal relationship, so we see each one as much more than a business association. Above all, we want you to be most impressed with our knowledge, integrity, and level of service — not our wardrobe.
How do I know you're trustworthy?
This is a really wise question to ask.
First, we'd encourage you to check out our Google and Yelp reviews to see what our clients say about us. You can also do an advisor check on the SEC (Securities & Exchange Commission) website to confirm our good standing.
Second, as a fiduciary registered investment advisor, we are legally and ethically required to act in your best interest at all times. Unlike non-fiduciary advisors who follow the suitability rule (which only requires recommendations to be “suitable” at the time the financial or insurance product is purchased), we prioritize your needs above all else.
Third, we are a fee-only firm, meaning we do not sell products or receive any compensation from them, unlike fee-based firms that may charge fees AND earn commissions. This gives our clients another layer of protection that ensures our advice is unbiased and focused solely on their best interests.
Fourth, we are an independent firm, not a broker-dealer. That means we can recommend what is best for you without quotas or commissions clouding our judgment. We don't receive any kickbacks for any recommendations we make.
Our clients are our boss, and they are the only ones paying us. The better our clients do, the better we do — true partnership.
Do you sell insurance or annuities?
No. We do not sell any products, and only get paid by our clients for managing their assets.
Who holds my money?
Convergent Financial Group does not hold your money. A financial institution, called a custodian, will hold your securities for safekeeping to minimize the risk of their theft or loss. We have selected Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab") as primary custodian for our clients' accounts.
How do I get information about my accounts?
Once your investments are under the management of Convergent Financial Group and held by our custodian, Schwab, you will be able to go online at any time with your secure login to look at your investments. You will be able to obtain past statements and look up certain tax and other documents. Everything is conveniently accessed on our website through the Client Portal menu option at the bottom of the page.