Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about financial planning, retirement, debt, or mortgages? Explore answers to the most common questions we hear from clients just like you—clear, honest, and easy to understand.
Financial Strategies
What is a complimentary financial plan, and how do I get one?
We offer a free, no-obligation financial planning session where we review your current finances and help you build a personalized strategy. You can request a plan through our contact or scheduling page.
What should I bring to my financial planning session?
Bring your income details, monthly expenses, debts, assets, insurance documents, and retirement accounts—anything that reflects your current financial picture.
How often should I update my financial plan?
We recommend reviewing your plan annually or whenever there’s a major life change like a new job, home purchase, or the birth of a child.
How do you personalize each financial plan?
Each plan is tailored using your actual numbers, goals, debts, savings, and investments. No cookie-cutter solutions—just what fits your life best.
Do I need a certain income level to start financial planning?
No! We work with clients at every income level—from those investing $25/month to large retirement rollovers.
Retirement Planning
How much should I be saving for retirement each month?
It depends on your age, lifestyle, and goals. We’ll work with you to calculate a target and set up a realistic plan.
Can I still retire if I got a late start on saving?
Yes—it’s never too late. We’ll focus on high-impact strategies like catch-up contributions and risk management.
Do I need to worry about taxes on retirement income?
Yes. We help plan withdrawals and allocations in ways that can minimize your tax liability.
How can I estimate how much money I’ll need in retirement?
We’ll factor in your lifestyle, healthcare costs, inflation, and longevity to build a realistic savings goal.
Debt Elimination
How do I know if I should consolidate my debt?
It depends on your interest rates and financial habits. We’ll help you assess whether consolidation or a structured payoff plan is better.
Can I still invest while paying off debt?
Yes, often a balanced strategy works best. We’ll review your budget and goals to decide how to split your resources.
How can I improve my credit score while getting out of debt?
By making on-time payments, keeping credit utilization low, and having a clear payoff strategy. We can help with all of these.
What's the difference between good debt and bad debt?
Good debt builds value—like mortgages or education. Bad debt has high interest and little return, like credit card debt.
Is it better to pay off debt or save money?
Ideally, both! But depending on your situation, we’ll help you prioritize without losing financial momentum.
Mortgage Services
What’s involved in a mortgage review?
We evaluate your current loan terms, interest rate, and home equity to see if refinancing or adjusting your mortgage could save you money.
How do I know if refinancing is the right move?
If you can lower your rate, reduce loan term, or access equity affordably, refinancing may be a good fit. We’ll do the math for you.
What types of loans do you offer for homebuyers?
We work with various lenders to provide FHA, VA, conventional, and other loans to fit your needs.
How much down payment do I need to buy a home?
e programs allow as little as 3% down. We’ll guide you to the best option based on your credit and income.
Can I get help with mortgage planning if I'm self-employed?
Absolutely. We help many self-employed individuals structure their income and documentation to qualify.
Life Insurance
What’s the difference between term and whole life insurance?
Term life provides coverage for a set period and is cost-effective. Whole life offers lifelong protection and builds cash value. The best choice depends on your goals and budget.
How much life insurance do I really need?
We calculate your needs based on income, debt, dependents, and future goals like college or retirement.
Is life insurance only for people with children?
Not at all. Life insurance protects loved ones, covers debts and final expenses, and helps leave a legacy – whether or not you have children.
Working with Ruby
Do you work with clients who are just getting started?
Yes! Many of our clients are at the beginning of their financial journey. Everyone is welcome.
Do I need to live in Florida to work with you?
No. I’m licensed in multiple states including MI, CO, CA, and more. Many services can be handled virtually.