Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
Here are some of the most common things people ask us about.
Why are you called Armstrong Wealth Management?
Why should I hire a financial advisor instead of doing it myself?
How much do I need to have saved to work with you?
Can you help me with specific goals, like saving for college or planning for retirement?
What's your investment strategy?
I already have a Financial Plan. Why would I need Asset Management?
What if my financial situation changes?
How do you keep everything secure?
How do you get paid? What are your fees?
What should I bring to our first meeting?
I have a busy schedule. Do you offer virtual or phone appointments?
Armstrong Wealth Management has deep roots in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, where Alex founded the firm over 40 years ago. We're proudly named after Armstrong County and still call the corner of Market Street home—so yes, we've been around for a while and aren't going anywhere. But just because we're rooted in the past doesn't mean we're stuck there. In fact, we recently updated and expanded our office in 2024 because we're committed to being here for the long haul and staying ahead of the curve.
"Armstrong" is more than a name—it represents strength, stability, and dependability. Just like our firm, the Armstrong name has stood the test of time, and we aim to bring that same reliability to your financial future. While our roots are local, our reach is nationwide, with licenses in multiple states and clients from coast to coast. So, whether you're around the corner or halfway across the country, you can count on Armstrong Wealth Management to help you with your financial goals. And when you visit, be sure to say hello to Ouzo—he'll introduce you to his favorite spots on Market Street.
While it's tempting to manage finances on your own, think of it like this: would you spend your time, money, and energy learning to be a mechanic if your car breaks down, or would you hire a professional to get it fixed quickly and correctly? The same goes for financial advising. As a fiduciary in advisory relationships at Armstrong Wealth Management, our obligation is to act in your best interest at all times. We create a personalized plan tailored to your goals, striveing to save you the time and stress of learning all the ins and outs of investing. With our experience and expertise, we help ensure your finances are on track, so you can focus on what matters most to you.
At Armstrong Wealth Management, we work with clients starting with as little as $10,000 to invest. This could be in a retirement account, an investment portfolio, or even a savings account—whatever you're working with! It's a great place to begin, and we'll guide you on how to grow from there. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or you're looking to make smarter moves with your savings, we're here to help. No need to feel intimidated—think of us as your financial cheerleaders—rah, rah, saving!
Absolutely! We can assist you with a wide range of financial goals, including:
- Saving for college
- Planning for retirement
- Buying a home
- Managing debt
- Building an emergency fund Our team will tailor a plan to meet your unique goals and needs.
Whatever your dreams are, we're here to help make them come true—without a magic wand, but close!
Our investment strategy at AWM is built around you. We take the time to understand your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon, because each strategy we implement is fully dependent on the unique needs of you and your family. No two situations are exactly the same! Once we understand what's important to you, we create a diversified portfolio designed with a goal to help you achieve your specific objectives. As a fiduciary in advisory relationships, we prioritize your best interests and make recommendations that align with your financial goals, helping you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
A financial plan is a great first step—think of it as your playbook for life, outlining goals like retirement, buying a house, or saving for college. Asset management is for those who want more than just the plan—it's about making sure your money works as hard as you do to work torward those goals. If you prefer managing your investments on your own, that's perfectly fine! Financial planning alone can give you the clarity and direction you need.
But if you'd like extra support, AWM asset management steps in like a coach, adjusting your strategy as markets change or life happens. It's all about helping you stay on track and giving you confidence that your money is working in the right direction.
Whether you want a coach or prefer to go solo, the choice is yours. AWM is here to support whichever path you choose!
Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss.
No worries! Life happens, and your financial situation might change. We're here to help you adjust your plan accordingly. Whether you experience a windfall, face unexpected expenses, or just want to change your financial goals, we'll work with you to ensure your plan stays on track.
At Armstrong Wealth Management (AWM), safeguarding your financial information and ensuring compliance with industry regulations is our top priority. Here's how we do it:
1. Partnership with LPL Financial:
- AWM partners with LPL Financial, one of the largest independent broker-dealers as reported by Financial Planning magazine, 1996-2024, based on total revenue, bringing over 40 years of industry experience and comprehensive security. LPL's advanced infrastructure, including encryption and multi-factor authentication, safeguards your data while ensuring compliance with SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory standards.
- LPL provides tools and training to ensure that every transaction and recommendation we make at AWM is fully compliant with the latest regulations.
2. Advanced Security Measures:
- We use competitve encryption to protect your data and ensure secure access.
- Our encrypted "My Rep Chat" app makes direct communication with your advisor as easy as texting, while keeping everything private.
- For meetings, we use Webex virtual calls, offering a secure, compliant platform beyond typical Zoom or Teams meetings.
3. Compliance with Regulations:
- We strictly adhere to industry regulations and best practices, with ongoing monitoring to stay ahead of any changes.
- As fiduciaries in advisory relationship, we're committed to acting in your best interest with the highest level of care and transparency.
At AWM, you can have confidence knowing that your financial well-being is in secure hands. If you have any more questions about our security and compliance practices, feel free to reach out!
At Armstrong Wealth Management (AWM), we believe in keeping things transparent and simple—just like a good conversation with a friend. Here's a breakdown of our fees:
Standalone Financial Plan:
- Cost: $1,000 - $1,500* (one-time fee financial plan fee )
- Details: Think of it as getting a custom-tailored suit for your finances—made just for you.
- Optional Ongoing Quarterly Support: $225 per quarter if you want us to keep the financial wisdom flowing.
Financial Planning with Asset Management:
- Cost: $500 - $750* (financial planning fee) + 1% - 1.8% of your assets ( Asset Management fee)
- Details: Imagine having a personal trainer, but for your money. We'll craft a plan and manage your investments to help keep them in tip-top shape.
Now, here's the best part—we're fiduciaries. This means we're legally and ethically obligated to act in your best interest. Think of us as your financial best friend who always has your back. No hidden charges or tricky fine print, just straightforward advice tailored to your needs.
If you have any more questions about our fees or services, feel free to reach out. We're here to help, with a smile!
*These fees are based on the complexity of each plan. After we understand your needs, we can quote you your fee.
Nominal transaction costs may occur.
To make the most of our first meeting, please bring:
- Investment account statements
- Retirement and insurance statements
- A list of your regular monthly expenses
- Most recent tax return
- Any questions you have about our services
And if you have a spouse, partner, or significant other, bring them along too! It's always great to have an extra set of ears—and they might ask the questions you didn't think of!
We want to make sure we get to know you, your goals, and your current financial situation so we can create a suitable plan your future. The more info you bring, the better we can help!
All the above! We make it easy to fit your lifestyle—whether you're at home in your pajamas, at the office, or taking a walk with your dog. You can choose to meet in person or connect by phone or virtually. Grab a cup of coffee (or tea, or whatever you prefer), and let's have a casual chat about your financial goals. No fancy jargon, no sales pitch—just real talk about how we can help you with this whole “money” thing.
DID WE MISS SOMETHING?
Ask away—our goal is to make financial planning feel easy and stress-free. We're here for you!