Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What is an independent RIA?
An independent Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) provides investment management and financial advice under a fiduciary standard. That means we are legally obligated to act in your best interest when providing advisory services.
As an independent firm, we can focus on the strategies, recommendations, and planning decisions that best support your goals rather than being tied to a proprietary set of products or solutions. For many clients, that independence provides greater confidence that their financial plan is built around their needs, not a company’s sales priorities.
What is the difference between a fiduciary RIA and a broker-dealer?
As an RIA, we provide advice under a fiduciary standard, which means we must act in your best interest when providing advisory services. Broker-dealers operate under a different regulatory framework and may receive compensation for recommending or selling certain investment products.
That doesn’t mean every recommendation is inappropriate, but it does create potential conflicts that investors should understand. Many people compare these models when evaluating how advice is delivered, how advisors are compensated, and how conflicts of interest are addressed.
Do you act as a fiduciary?
Yes. Cooksen Wealth operates as an independent fiduciary advisory firm, and we are committed to acting in our clients’ best interests when providing advisory services.
How are you compensated?
Cooksen Wealth operates as a fee-only wealth manager, meaning our clients pay one transparent fee for the comprehensive services we provide. This fee is billed on a quarterly basis, in advance, based on the average daily balance of assets under advisement in the previous quarter. Since fees are calculated as a percentage of your assets under our advisement, we only succeed if you do.
At this time, we do not offer hourly or flat fee financial planning services. We encourage prospective clients to review our current Form ADV and Form CRS for complete details about our compensation structure and services.
What is your account minimum?
For new relationships, we typically work with clients who have $1 million or more in investable assets.
Who is a good fit for Cooksen Wealth?
We are generally a good fit for individuals and families who want an ongoing advisory relationship and thoughtful, comprehensive planning. Many of our clients are C-suite executives, independent women, and high-earning professionals balancing career, family, and long-term financial decisions.
Do you only work with clients in The Woodlands or Houston?
Cooksen Wealth is based in The Woodlands, Texas, and primarily serves clients in The Woodlands and Greater Houston. Depending on the circumstances, we may also work with clients in other locations.
Where are client assets held?
Client accounts are held and safeguarded at Charles Schwab, one of the leading custodians serving independent advisory firms. Once your account is established with Schwab, you provide us with specified authorization to process trades and facilitate administration.
To begin the transfer process, the first step is to provide us with a statement from your current firm.
What does our initial conversation look like?
The first step is typically a 30-minute introductory call. We will ask you to complete a brief form prior to this discussion, so we have a basic understanding of your financial circumstances and objectives. This conversation gives us a chance to learn more about your goals, answer initial questions, and determine whether there is a good mutual fit.
What will our first year of working together look like?
During your first year as a client, we focus on building the foundation for your long-term financial plan. Together, we organize your financial life, develop a comprehensive strategy, and implement an investment approach aligned with your goals, resources, and priorities.
Most clients meet with us more frequently during the first year as we gather information, make key planning decisions, and put recommendations into action. Once that foundation is in place, we transition to an ongoing planning relationship with regular reviews and proactive guidance as your life and goals evolve.
What services do you provide?
We provide comprehensive wealth management tailored to your goals and circumstances. Depending on your needs, our work may include financial planning, investment management, tax-aware planning, retirement planning, estate planning coordination, and equity compensation strategy. We also have relationships with best-in-class providers to provide a powerful platform that delivers the technology and wealth management resources that are of highest value to our clients.
Will you coordinate with my CPA and estate attorney?
Yes. We regularly collaborate with clients’ CPAs, estate planning attorneys, and other trusted professionals to help ensure important financial decisions are coordinated and aligned with your overall plan.
Do you help with equity compensation and concentrated stock positions?
Yes. We help clients navigate stock-based compensation and concentrated stock positions, including RSUs, stock options, ESPPs, and other forms of equity compensation. Our goal is to integrate these assets into your broader financial plan while managing risk and tax considerations thoughtfully.
Do you help with retirement planning?
Yes. Retirement planning is a core part of our work. We help clients evaluate retirement readiness, develop income and withdrawal strategies, coordinate Social Security decisions, and plan for healthcare and long-term care needs throughout retirement.
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple. Reach out to us by completing this form, or call 832-592-2554 to schedule an introductory conversation.