Who we serve Trades professionals

Financial planning for trades professionals.

Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, contractors and other skilled trades build careers that are demanding on the body and often run on overtime, union benefits or their own business. We help you turn that hard work into lasting security.

Book with Zack What to expect

Is this you?

You work in a skilled trade, as an employee, union member or owner of your own shop, and want a plan for your income, your benefits and your retirement.

Decisions we help you make

Every plan is built around your situation. These are the questions we work through most often.

Union pensions and annuity funds

Understanding your benefits and how they fit with your own savings.

Retiring on your timeline

Planning for a physically demanding career that may end earlier than most.

Starting or growing a business

Cash flow, taxes and owner pay when you go out on your own.

Retirement plans for owners

Choosing a Solo 401(k), SEP-IRA or plan for your crew.

Protecting your income

Disability, life and liability coverage for a hands-on career.

Variable and overtime pay

Budgeting and saving when your hours and income change.

A situation we often see

Every client is different. This hypothetical example shows how we might approach a common situation.

This case study is hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. It is a composite based on situations we commonly see and does not represent any specific client. Your results will depend on your own circumstances. It is not a guarantee of future results or a recommendation for any individual.

Retiring on his own timeline

The situation: A 45-year-old union electrician who wanted the option to retire at 58, before his body made the decision for him.
What we did: We coordinated his pension and annuity fund with his own Roth IRA savings, reviewed disability coverage and built a plan to bridge income until his pension and Social Security begin.
The outcome: A clear path to an earlier retirement, with protection in place if an injury cut his career short.

Common questions

General information to help you think through your situation. Your plan will depend on your own circumstances.

How does my union pension fit into my retirement plan?

Your pension, annuity fund and Social Security form the base of your retirement income. We look at your projected benefits, your early retirement options and your own savings to see when you can retire.

Can I retire before my pension starts?

Often, yes, if you have savings to bridge the gap. We plan how much you need in IRAs or other accounts to cover the years between your last day on the job and when your pension and Social Security begin.

I’m starting my own shop. What should I set up first?

Start with separate business finances, an entity that fits your liability and tax needs (set up with your attorney and CPA) and a retirement plan such as a Solo 401(k) or SEP-IRA. Disability and liability coverage matter too, since your income depends on your ability to work.

Getting started

Your first meeting is free, with no obligation. If you have them handy, it helps to bring: a recent pay stub or business financials, your union benefit statements if you have them, last year’s tax return and statements for any retirement accounts. Nothing is required for the first conversation.

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