What Makes a Retirement Planner in Sandusky a Good Fit?

Jarrett Lang, RICP®, RFC®

Director of Marketing
August 5, 2025
Time text

Retirement planning in Sandusky comes with its own set of questions. From preserving your savings to creating reliable income, it’s important to work with an advisor who understands the retirement challenges facing families in Northern Ohio. For many, the right fit is a fiduciary—someone who puts your interests first and focuses on planning over product sales.

W.A. Smith Financial Group offers that approach, with a Sandusky office serving clients across Erie and Ottawa counties. The firm’s process, known as Ascend 360™, helps organize retirement income, tax strategy, investments, healthcare costs, and estate planning into a clear, actionable plan. It all starts with a Retirement Tune-Up™ financial review—a complimentary meeting to explore where you stand and what opportunities may exist.

With an experienced advisory team, in-house investment oversight, and a focus on simplicity, W.A. Smith Financial Group is designed to support retirees who want to spend less time managing money and more time enjoying life.

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

"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
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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