Planning for retirement requires more than investment decisions. It calls for a complete strategy that connects income, taxes, healthcare, estate planning, and long-term financial goals. W.A. Smith Financial Group provides a structured process to help retirees and pre-retirees build confidence in their financial future. Here are the top reasons someone might consider working with the firm:
The firm’s approach includes five key areas of planning: income, investing, tax strategy, healthcare, and estate planning. This structure helps ensure no critical element is overlooked as clients prepare for retirement and beyond.
W.A. Smith Financial Group uses a proprietary framework called the Ascend 360™ planning process. It aims to break retirement planning into manageable steps, helping clients understand their options and move forward with clarity.
The firm begins with a complimentary Retirement Tune-Up™ financial review. This meeting helps clients evaluate their current position, identify opportunities for improvement, and better understand how a coordinated plan can serve their goals.
Clients receive guidance from a team of licensed professionals, including CFP®, RICP®, and MRFC® designees. As fiduciaries, the firm’s advisors are committed to acting in the best interests of each client.
Investment management is handled internally by an experienced committee that follows a defined due diligence process. This structure supports consistency, risk awareness, and alignment with the client’s broader plan.
W.A. Smith Financial Group provides ongoing reviews and planning support to adjust as life changes. This includes regular updates, strategy adjustments, and education on topics relevant to each stage of retirement.
This structured, planning-focused approach aims to offer clients a dependable process for managing the financial aspects of retirement with more clarity and less guesswork.
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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