How to Choose a Financial Advisor in Independence, Ohio

Jarrett Lang, RICP®, RFC®

Director of Marketing
August 5, 2025
Time text

Choosing a financial advisor near Independence isn’t always easy—especially if you’re approaching retirement and unsure who to trust. Many people in this stage of life want more than just investment advice. They’re looking for guidance across income, taxes, estate planning, and healthcare—and they want that advice to be personalized and conflict-free.

W.A. Smith Financial Group, with an office serving Independence and the greater Cleveland area, was built with that in mind. The firm follows a proprietary framework called the Ascend 360™ planning process, which helps clients organize and optimize all key areas of retirement. It begins with a complimentary Retirement Tune-Up™ financial review that helps clarify goals, identify gaps, and explore new planning strategies.

If you’re looking for a team that values planning first and offers deep retirement experience, W.A. Smith Financial Group provides a structured, fiduciary-based approach that may be worth considering.

Ready for a Retirement Tune-UpTM financial review?

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See what our clients say

We're proud of the relationships we build with our clients and the results we achieve together. Read their stories and discover why they trust us with their financial futures. We invite you to join our community of empowered individuals.

Displayed testimonials were provided by current clients. No compensation of any kind was provided for these testimonials.

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John Carter

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Sophie Moore

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Matt Cannon

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Andy Smith

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

John Carter

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Sophie Moore

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Matt Cannon

“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet conse ctetur adipiscing lectus a nunc mauris scelerisque sed egestas pharetraol quis pharetra arcu pharetra blandit.”

Andy Smith

"Excellent very helpful and have chose wise decisions with finances as well as retirement planning"

Scott A. | Client Since 2017

Administrative nurse O'Neill health care
"Very good and helpful. They take the time to explain your portfolio so you understand it. Would recomend highly them."

Theresa H. | Client Since 2015

Former Dental assistant for Dr. Myers and Dr. Nicely
"Was a very professional experience. Feel comfortable with the Group handling my resources, as I want."

Paul G. | Client Since 2023

Former Owner of insurance agency
"I am very pleased at the ease, professionalism, customer service, and friendliness. I feel confident with W.A. Smith I will reach my retirement goals."

Denette C. | Client Since 2023

Executive Admin., Parker Hannifin
"Local company - speaking with a local rep face-to-face is always a good asset"

Martin L. | Client Since 2023

General Manager, Try Auto Sales-All Family of companies
"It's been great. Andrew and his team are always ready to help me with any questions or needs. That definitely reduced my anxiety regarding retirement."

Jill G. | Client Since 2018

Former Director of MIS
Written by

Jarrett Lang, RICP®, RFC®

Director of Marketing

Disclosure:
Great Lakes Retirement, Inc., (DBA W.A. Smith Financial Group (W.A. Smith), (this website) is owned and operated by W.A. Smith. W.A. Smith offers investment advisory services and is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the advisory firm by the SEC nor does it indicate that the advisory firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. All content available on this Website is general in nature, not directed or tailored to any particular person, and is for informational purposes only. Neither the Website nor any of its content is offered as investment advice and should not be deemed as investment advice or a recommendation to purchase or sell any specific security. The information contained herein reflects the opinions and projections of W.A. Smith as of the date hereof, which are subject to change without notice at any time. W.A. Smith does not represent that any opinion or projection will be realized. Neither W.A. Smith nor any of its advisers, officers, directors, or affiliates represents that the information presented on this Website is accurate, current or complete, and such information is subject to change without notice. Any performance information must be considered in conjunction with applicable disclosures. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Neither this Website nor its contents should be construed as legal, tax, or other advice. Individuals are urged to consult with their own tax or legal advisers before entering into any advisory contract. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Investment Advisory Services offered through Great Lakes Retirement, Inc., an SEC-Registered Investment Advisor. Registration does not denote any level of skill or qualification. Insurance and tax planning services offered through W.A. Smith Financial, LLC. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [ 18] organizations which offer [54] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

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