FAQ

We charge an annual advisory fee based on assets under management (AUM). Our standard fee schedule is: 1.00% on the first $1 million, 0.80% on assets between $1M and $3M, and 0.60% on assets above $3M. Fees are calculated quarterly and deducted directly from your custodial account. There are no commissions, no transaction fees, and no hidden charges. Financial planning is included in the advisory fee for all wealth management clients.

Our minimum for ongoing wealth management is $250,000 in investable assets. This can include retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, Roth IRA), taxable investment accounts, and other liquid assets. We occasionally make exceptions for clients who are on a clear path to the minimum — for example, younger professionals with high savings rates. If you are not sure whether you qualify, we encourage you to schedule a consultation and we will give you an honest assessment.

Yes. Meridian Wealth Advisors is a registered investment advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). As a fiduciary, we are legally obligated to act in your best interest at all times. We do not sell products, we do not earn commissions, and we do not receive compensation from any third party for recommending specific investments. We are fee-only, meaning our only source of compensation is the advisory fee paid by our clients.

Most clients meet with their advisory team two to four times per year. We conduct a comprehensive annual review that covers your financial plan, investment performance, tax situation, estate documents, and goals. Between annual reviews, we schedule quarterly check-ins — either in person or via video — to review any changes in your life or finances and make adjustments as needed. You also have unlimited access to your advisor by phone and email for questions that arise between scheduled meetings.

For wealth management clients, comprehensive financial planning is included at no additional cost. This includes: retirement income projections and Social Security optimization, investment portfolio management and reporting, tax planning and Roth conversion analysis, estate planning coordination (with your attorney), education funding analysis, insurance review, and cash flow planning. We also coordinate directly with your CPA and estate attorney to ensure all professionals working on your behalf are aligned.

The process begins with a complimentary 30-minute introductory call. During this call, we will learn about your financial situation and goals, explain our services and fees, and determine whether we are a good fit for each other. There is no obligation and no pressure. If we both agree to move forward, we schedule a longer discovery meeting where we gather detailed information about your finances. From there, we develop your financial plan and investment strategy within 30 days.

Your assets are held at Charles Schwab, one of the largest and most reputable custodians in the industry. Schwab provides independent custody, meaning your money is held in your name at Schwab — not at Meridian. We have authorization to manage your investments, but we cannot withdraw funds or write checks from your account. This custodial arrangement provides a critical layer of protection and transparency. You will receive monthly statements directly from Schwab in addition to our quarterly performance reports.

No, we do not prepare or file tax returns. Tax strategy is a core part of our financial planning process — we analyze Roth conversions, tax-loss harvesting opportunities, asset location, charitable giving strategies, and withdrawal sequencing. But the actual tax preparation and filing is handled by your CPA or tax preparer. We work closely with your tax professional throughout the year, providing year-end tax summaries and coordinating on estimated payments. If you need a CPA recommendation, we work with several excellent firms in the Chicago area and are happy to provide referrals.