Our Approach
A five-step process built around you — not a template.
The CLEAR Approach is the framework for how we work with every client. It was designed with you in mind — it prioritizes accountability from us, brings order to complexity, and makes sure your financial plan keeps pace with your actual life.
Step One — Connect
Get to Know You
A focused conversation to find out if working together makes sense. We start by listening — your situation, what's on your mind, and what you're looking for in a planning relationship. You'll leave knowing exactly how we work and whether we're the right fit.
If we determine that we're not the right advisors for you, we'll point you toward someone who may be a better match.
Typically a 30–45 minute meeting- Discuss your situation and what's on your mind
- Learn what you're looking for in a planning relationship
- Explain how we work, our process, and our fees
- Determine mutual fit before moving forward
Step Two — Look at Everything
Organize & Gather
We get organized and make sure we understand exactly what's where. This is the stage that makes everything after it significantly easier. We inventory your assets, income, liabilities, benefits, and existing coverage so nothing gets missed.
Time before next meeting: 1–2 weeks- Complete your financial organizer and gather key documents
- Review existing investments, insurance, and estate documents
- Identify gaps, overlaps, and opportunities
- Establish your baseline — where you are today
Step Three — Engineer Your Plan
Plan Delivery
We present your personalized financial plan — built around your goals, your life stage, and your specific situation. We walk through everything together in plain language, so you leave with a clear picture of where you stand and exactly what we recommend.
Time before next meeting: 2–4 weeks- Review net worth, cash flow, and current investments
- Retirement income projections and Social Security strategy
- Tax-efficiency and investment allocation recommendations
- Risk management and estate planning considerations
- Prioritized action items and implementation timeline
Step Four — Act with Accountability
Implement & Follow Through
A plan that stays on paper isn't a plan — it's a document. We take action alongside you, coordinating with your CPA, estate attorney, or other professionals as needed. Then we follow up until every action item is complete.
Ongoing check-ins & availability- Open new accounts and facilitate transfers
- Fill insurance gaps and restructure liabilities
- Coordinate with your CPA, attorney, or realtor
- Follow-up check-ins until fully implemented
Step Five — Review & Refine
Annual Ongoing Planning
Your life changes — your plan should too. We create a new financial plan at the beginning of each year and hold structured review meetings throughout the year to keep you on track and moving confidently ahead.
4 structured meetings per year + availability as needed- Annual strategy meeting to set the year
- Mid-year planning review and adjustments
- Investment and benefits review
- Year-end planning and preparation
What Ongoing Looks Like
Your Year With Us
Four structured meetings throughout the year — each focused on a different piece of your financial life.
Annual Strategy Meeting
Q1 — Jan to Mar- Build a new financial plan for the year
- Review prior year results and update goals
- Coordinate with your tax professional
- Address pressing questions or tasks
Regular Activity: Tax-efficient investment monitoring & rebalancing
Mid-Year Planning Review
Q2 — May to Jul- Review planning strategies powered by Holistiplan
- Update income projections and tax-efficiency
- Evaluate Roth conversion opportunities
- Coordinate findings with your tax professional
Regular Activity: Tax-efficient investment monitoring & rebalancing
Investment & Benefits Review
Q3/Q4 — Oct to Nov- Investment review and year-end positioning
- Company benefits and open enrollment
- Insurance & estate review (every other year)
- Coordinate year-end strategies with tax pro
Regular Activity: Tax-efficient investment monitoring & rebalancing
Year-End Planning
Q4 — December- Finalize year-end investment strategies
- Review annual progress and projections
- Coordinate remaining tax-efficient moves
- Prepare action items for the following year
Regular Activity: Tax-efficient investment monitoring & rebalancing
Meeting agendas shown are representative and may vary based on your individual situation — your planning needs may include topics not listed here. Crescent Capital Planning does not provide tax preparation or tax filing services. Tax planning strategy reviews are powered by Holistiplan and are coordinated with your tax professional. Our general philosophy is to focus on tax-efficient investment strategies as part of your overall financial plan.
Ready to Get Started?
Fill out the form to your right and we'll reach out within one business day to schedule a virtual or in-person meeting.