FAQ
Common questions, plain answers
If something is not answered here, reach out directly and we will get back to you within one business day.
Getting started
How do I get started?
Fill out the contact form on our Book a Free Plan page. We will be in touch within one business day to schedule a 30-minute introductory call. You do not need to prepare anything in advance.
Do I need to have my finances organized before reaching out?
Not at all. Most people come to us in the middle of figuring things out — that is exactly what we are here for. Just show up with your questions.
How long does the process take?
The introductory call is 30 minutes. After that, we typically deliver your written financial plan within one to two weeks. From there, ongoing support is available free of charge — check-ins, plan updates, and questions whenever they come up.
Fees and pricing
How much does the initial plan cost?
The introductory call and written financial plan are completely free. No strings attached. You can take the plan, use it on your own, and never pay us a dollar — and that is perfectly fine.
Why is the initial plan free?
Because we think you should be able to evaluate whether working with us is actually useful before you spend anything. We would rather earn your trust with a real plan than sell you on a pitch.
Is ongoing support free too?
Yes. All ongoing support is completely free — check-ins, plan updates, and questions whenever they come up. There are no fees of any kind.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. We explain every fee before any paid engagement begins. There are no setup fees, no cancellation fees, and no surprise charges.
What if I just want the free plan and nothing else?
That is completely fine. Take the plan, implement it yourself, and come back if you ever want more help. We do not follow up with sales pressure.
How we work and what fiduciary means
Are consultations really free?
Yes. All planning meetings and consultations are free of charge. There is no obligation to move forward, no sales pitch, and no catch. You get honest guidance because that is the service.
What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest at all times — not just to recommend something "suitable." Not all financial advisors meet this standard. As a registered investment adviser (RIA), we are held to the fiduciary standard.
How is North Planning different from a bank or insurance agent?
Banks and insurance agents are typically compensated based on products they sell. Their recommendations can be shaped by what benefits them. We provide free, independent planning consultations with your best interest as the only priority.
How are you different from a robo-advisor like Betterment or Wealthfront?
Robo-advisors manage investments algorithmically but do not provide comprehensive financial planning. They will not help you think through insurance, tax strategy, estate planning, or the full picture of your financial life. We do.
Who we work with
Do I need to have a lot of money to work with you?
No. We work with households at all income and asset levels. Good financial planning matters more when resources are limited, not less. We work with young professionals just starting out, families managing competing priorities, and people approaching retirement.
Do you work with people outside of Minnesota?
Yes. We work with clients across the United States. All planning conversations can happen over video call.
Do you manage investments on my behalf?
Our focus is financial planning — building the strategy and telling you what to do. For investment management, we can advise on your existing accounts and give you clear direction, but we do not take discretionary control of your portfolio. This keeps our relationship advisory rather than custodial.
What the free plan covers
What is actually included in the free financial plan?
The free plan is a real written document based on your actual situation. It typically covers: a review of your current financial position, a cash flow and savings analysis, retirement readiness, emergency fund assessment, insurance and protection gaps, tax-efficiency opportunities, and a prioritized list of next steps.
Is the free plan just a sales pitch to get me to sign up?
No. It is a real plan with real recommendations you can act on immediately. We do not hold back useful information to create dependency. If you decide ongoing support is not for you, the plan stands on its own.
What happens after I receive the plan?
We review the plan together on a follow-up call. From there, you decide: implement it yourself, or continue with ongoing support from us. There is no pressure either way.
Still have a question?
The best way to get a real answer is a real conversation. The first one is free.
Start for free
Ready to see what your financial picture actually looks like?
A free 30-minute call and a written plan — before you pay anything. No obligation, no sales pitch.
