Edge Blueprint: Case Study

Strategic Self-Directed Wealth Management for a High-Earning Professional
An entrepreneurial business owner utilized Sterling Edge’s $500/month DIY Planning Model to independently implement professional financial strategies while leveraging our advisory partnership for education, strategic insight, and accountability.
Client Profile
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Amidst significant transitions in family, career, and tax structure, this mid-career entrepreneur sought holistic planning support. With an established asset base and a multimillion-dollar net worth on the horizon, the client prioritized retaining asset control while gaining access to high-level strategy through our DIY Planning Model. 

Scope of Engagement

This individual engaged our team as a strategic resource and educational partner, while maintaining full responsibility for hands-on implementation. Their plan centered on optimizing tax efficiency, revising estate plans for new family dynamics, maximizing employee benefits, and enhancing investment decision-making.

Implementation Support Provided

Tax Optimization & Strategy 

We conducted a retrospective review of the clients previous tax filings and highlighted important discrepancies. By facilitating a connection to a qualified tax professional and guiding the process of correcting these errors, we enabled the client to proactively address costly mistakes and mitigate the risk of substantial penalties. We also delivered education regarding advanced investment strategies and private placements, empowering the client to act on opportunities for greater annual tax efficiency within their portfolio. 

Employee Benefit Maximization 

By taking a comprehensive look at the client's benefits, we advised on strategic adjustments to HSA, retirement plan selections, and insurance enrollments. Our guidance enabled the client to enhance the value of their benefits package, resulting in a more robust foundation for ongoing wealth accumulation. 

Investment & Insurance Strategy 

Our engagement included a thorough examination of portfolio concentration risks. We provided actionable suggestions to improve diversification and coached the client on the use of Variable Universal Life (VUL) and Whole Life insurance policies as potential long-term, tax-advantaged growth vehicles. This approach supported the client's ability to fine-tune their asset allocation while exploring tools for building additional security into their financial plan. 

Estate & Family Planning 

We provided guidance on retitling key assets into trust structures and shared resources for empowering family members financially. With our direction, the client initiated the funding of custodial and Roth IRA accounts for dependents, strengthening their intergenerational planning efforts.   

Financial Capacity Awareness

Throughout our work together, a major theme was increasing the client's clarity about their financial capacity. We offered clear, actionable education to help the client approach significant investment decisions, charitable giving, and family support from an informed and empowered position. 

Why Sterling Edge DIY Planning? 

Sterling Edge's Blueprint DIY Planning Subscription is designed for clients who value independent action supported by professional accountability. We deliver high-touch guidance and strategic education, empowering you to recognize value, avoid costly missteps, and move proactively in both your day-to-day and long-term wealth management. 

 

 

Disclosure: This testimonial may not be representative of the experience of other customers. The testimonial is no guarantee of future performance or success.