Yes. The second opinion is a 30-minute conversation at no cost and with no obligation. If you want a full written plan or ongoing management afterward, the cost is explained and agreed in writing before any work begins.

Will you try to sell me something?

The meeting is for your questions. If something is worth looking at, I will tell you what it is and why. Whether you do anything about it, and with whom, is your decision.

Do I have to move my accounts?

No. Plenty of people use the second opinion to confirm that what they already have is working. Nothing moves unless you decide it should.

Can we meet in person?

Yes. I meet at Fidelity Bank branches across the Triangle and the Piedmont, or by phone or video if that is easier.

Through LPL Financial, by planning fees, advisory fees, and commissions on insurance products, all disclosed in writing before any engagement.

Free, 30 minutes, no obligation

A second opinion on your retirement.

Most people have never had anyone check the whole picture: the accounts, the Social Security timing, the taxes, and whether the money is set up to last. Bring what you have. Ask anything. Leave knowing the three things worth looking at next.

James Ustby, CFP®, APMA® · Wealth Advisor, LPL FinancialVerify: CFP Board record · BrokerCheck

How it goes: pick a time, bring one statement, 30 minutes, and you leave with the three things worth looking at next, in writing.

Pick a time on my calendar

Or call or text 919-226-4145.

Pick a time that works for you.

Choose in person at a Fidelity Bank branch, by phone, or by video. You will get a confirmation email with the details right away.

Calendar not showing? Open it in a new page.

Who it is for

You are retired or within about five years of it and want someone to check the plan before the paychecks stop.
A CD is maturing, a 401(k) is sitting at an old employer, or money just arrived from a home sale or an inheritance.
You already have an advisor and want a second set of eyes on fees, taxes, and how the income will actually work.
You own a business and are not sure how it becomes your retirement.

How it works

Step 1

Pick a time

Choose a slot on my calendar. In person at a Fidelity Bank branch, by phone, or by video.

Step 2

Bring what you have

Recent statements, your Social Security estimate from ssa.gov, and last year's tax return if you have it handy. Nothing is required.

Step 3

Ask anything

We go through your questions first. I ask the ones most people have never been asked about their money.

Step 4

Leave with a short list

The three things worth looking at next, in plain English. What you do with it is up to you.

Questions people ask first

Is it really free?: Yes. The second opinion is a 30-minute conversation at no cost and with no obligation. If you want a full written plan or ongoing management afterward, the cost is explained and agreed in writing before any work begins.
Will you try to sell me something?: The meeting is for your questions. If something is worth looking at, I will tell you what it is and why. Whether you do anything about it, and with whom, is your decision.
Do I have to move my accounts?: No. Plenty of people use the second opinion to confirm that what they already have is working. Nothing moves unless you decide it should.
Can we meet in person?: Yes. I meet at Fidelity Bank branches across the Triangle and the Piedmont, or by phone or video if that is easier.
How are you paid?: Through LPL Financial, by planning fees, advisory fees, and commissions on insurance products, all disclosed in writing before any engagement.

James Ustby, CFP®, APMA®

Thirty minutes is usually enough to know where you stand.

Pick a time on my calendar

Not ready to talk? Start with the free Retirement Reality Report or the daily article.

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Fidelity Bank and Fidelity Bank Wealth Management are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Fidelity Bank Wealth Management, and may also be employees of Fidelity Bank. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Fidelity Bank or Fidelity Bank Wealth Management.

Not Insured by FDIC or Any Other Government Agency
Not Bank Guaranteed
Not Bank Deposits or Obligations
May Lose Value

The LPL Financial registered representative associated with this site may discuss and transact securities business only with residents of the states in which they are properly registered or licensed. No offer may be made or accepted from any resident of any other state.

This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Neither LPL Financial nor its representatives provide legal or tax advice; please consult your attorney or tax advisor regarding your specific situation. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. Examples are hypothetical and for illustration only.