Is Mission Wealth a fiduciary?

Yes, Mission Wealth has been a fiduciary since our founding in 2000. We do not sell any products and have a legal and ethical responsibility to act in the best interest of our clients.

How are your service fees calculated and billed?

Service charges are calculated on the gross fair market value of the assets (excluding Margin unless Margin is used to purchase additional securities) in the Client’s advisory account(s) at quarter-end. Annualized fees are billed on a pro-rata basis quarterly in arrears based on the value of the account(s) on the last day of the previous quarter. Adjustments will be made for deposits and withdrawals during the quarter. Our firm bills on a cash basis unless indicated otherwise in writing. Fees are negotiable and will be deducted from client account(s). In most cases (outside of MissionForward), the total minimum fee is $10,000, payable quarterly, in arrears, at the end of each quarter. MWM may have legacy agreements in place via mergers with other firms with different fee and service schedules.

No – we are privately owned and operate as a single, integrated firm across offices nationwide.

What is discretionary versus non‑discretionary management?

Non-discretionary management means the client must approve the timing, amount, and pricing of each trade. Discretionary trading allows your advisor to make transactions on your behalf without your approval for each transaction. We operate on a discretionary basis, which means that after setting agreed-upon parameters, we can efficiently rebalance and manage your portfolio in a timely manner.

Can Mission Wealth wire money without my authorization?

No – only client-authorized and custodian-approved transactions are allowed.

What is your investment minimum?

Mission Wealth’s investment minimum is $1 million for comprehensive wealth management services.

Do you serve investors with assets under $1 million?

Yes – our MissionForward digital platform is designed for tech-savvy professionals, has no AUM minimum, and typically uses a monthly subscription model.

How do you protect client data and strengthen cybersecurity?

At Mission Wealth, protecting client data is a top priority. We use enterprise-grade firewalls, encryption, and 24/7 security monitoring to safeguard all systems. Access to sensitive information requires Single Sign-On (SSO) and/or multi-factor authentication (MFA) and can only be made from secure, Mission Wealth-issued devices. All files and communications are encrypted in transit and at rest, and incoming and outgoing emails are scanned for threats. Our IT service provider and Security Operations Center continuously monitor and respond to potential risks. Access to client data is limited to authorized team members who support each advisor relationship, and all employees complete ongoing cybersecurity and phishing training. We also maintain strict operational safeguards – including daily account reconciliations, review of deposits and withdrawals, and verified client authorization for all fund movements – to protect both client information and assets. Our goal is simple: to provide the highest level of security so clients can have complete confidence that their information and accounts are always protected.

Are my funds co‑mingled with other clients?

No. Your investments are ALWAYS held in your specific account, under your name (or the name of your trust or entity) and your tax ID number. Your money is separate and distinct to you.

What custodian does Mission Wealth use?

Mission Wealth custodies client assets with Fidelity and Schwab. See “How Your Assets Are Protected” at Schwab and Fidelity’s “Safeguarding Your Accounts”.

What if something happens to Mission Wealth?

Your assets remain with the custodian. Although we have disaster recovery and backup systems in place, you can assign a new advisor at any time.

Is everything confidential?

Yes, our conversations are confidential. We adhere to industry and professional ethics standards. However, court orders may compel disclosure. Read more in our Mission Wealth Privacy Policy.

Can I set up linked bank accounts or standing instructions?

Yes. Both must be authorized via signed paperwork and set up with the custodian.

Can I get regular distributions?

Yes, our clients often set up scheduled monthly distributions to their linked bank account.

What if someone impersonates me and requests a wire?

All wire/distribution requests require phone verification and signed authorization. Any distribution requests to addresses or non-linked accounts cannot be processed without your signature on new paperwork authorizing such a distribution (per Schwab and Fidelity rules, they will not act on instructions from our office without your signature).

What if someone tries to change my address?

We require phone verification for any personal information requests. Your account will be temporarily locked if an address change is detected.

Your assets are held with custodians Charles Schwab or Fidelity—we do not hold your funds.

What are the benefits of a Customized Portfolio?

A customized portfolio is built around your unique goals, time horizon, risk tolerance, tax situation, and personal values. Unlike generic investment models, a tailored approach helps ensure that every element of your portfolio aligns with your broader financial plan. At Mission Wealth, we take a personalized approach to portfolio construction—designing strategies that reflect your specific circumstances and long-term objectives, while providing flexibility to adapt as your life evolves.

Why is Asset Allocation Important?

Asset allocation is the strategic mix of asset classes – stocks, bonds, cash, real estate – to meet your goals and risk tolerance. At Mission Wealth, we tailor each portfolio’s asset allocation to your financial plan to help drive long-term consistency and success.

What is Portfolio Rebalancing?

Portfolio rebalancing involves adjusting your investment mix to maintain your intended level of risk and return. At Mission Wealth, we employ systematic rebalancing to capitalize on opportunities, mitigate risk, and maintain your portfolio’s alignment with your goals.

What’s the importance of Investment Discipline?

Investment discipline involves focusing on long-term fundamentals, maintaining full investment, and following a systematic approach to rebalancing. Emotions can derail long-term success. Investment discipline means adhering to a strategy, rebalancing regularly, and disregarding short-term noise (market fluctuations). At Mission Wealth, we believe that investment discipline is essential to achieving financial success and helps our clients stay on track toward their goals.

What’s the Importance of a Multi-Strategy Investment Approach?

Markets can be unpredictable. A diversified multi-strategy portfolio – one that includes both active and passive strategies – can help reduce risk and potentially enhance investment returns over time. At Mission Wealth, we thoughtfully apply multiple investment strategies across various asset classes to build resilient portfolios that withstand the market’s ebbs and flows.

What is SRI, ESG, and Impact Investing?

Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and Impact Investing incorporate both financial goals and personal values. Mission Wealth’s Social Values Portfolio supports your financial objectives while aligning with causes and sustainability values that matter to you.

What is Tax-Loss Harvesting?

Tax-loss harvesting means selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains and reduce your tax bill. At Mission Wealth, we proactively look for harvesting opportunities within taxable accounts to enhance after-tax performance.

What are the Benefits of Asset Location?

Asset location focuses on placing the right investments in the right types of accounts (taxable, tax-deferred, etc.) to reduce tax drag. At Mission Wealth, we incorporate asset location strategies to help maximize our clients’ after-tax returns, tailored to their individual circumstances.

What’s the Importance of Managing Investment Costs?

Investment costs are important to consider as your investment returns compound over time. Small fees can snowball and potentially reduce your long-term growth. That’s why it’s essential to keep costs low. At Mission Wealth, we focus on low-cost investments and efficient trading to help our clients achieve higher net-of-fee returns.

What are the Advantages of Global Diversification?

Investing always involves risk, and while different investments carry varying levels of volatility and potential returns, no single investment guarantees success every year. Global diversification adds additional ways to mitigate risk and improve long-term outcomes. At Mission Wealth, we believe a globally diverse portfolio is a critical component of portfolio management and vital to the success of any financial plan.

Does Mission Wealth work with high-earning women or business owners?

Yes. Many of our clients are leaders in their fields. We offer strategic advice to support both personal and professional financial goals.

If I lack confidence in investing, how can Mission Wealth help?

That’s one of our specialties. We explain the “why” behind each decision, empowering you to invest with intention, not fear.

Will I feel rushed to make financial decisions at Mission Wealth?

Never. We move at your pace and help you explore your options through education, not pressure.

How does Mission Wealth personalize financial planning for my goals and lifestyle?

We take a life-centered approach. From long-term planning to daily decisions, everything is tailored to your values, priorities, and family dynamics.

How can I feel more confident managing my finances as a woman?

Whether organizing accounts, planning for the future, or navigating change, we’ll help you gain confidence with every step.

Is your advice personalized or one-size-fits-all?

Every plan our advisors at Mission Wealth create is completely tailored to you. There are no templates, just thoughtful, customized guidance.

Is Mission Wealth’s financial advice straightforward for non-experts to understand?

We aim to explain things clearly, using visual tools to ensure you feel informed and in control.

Does Mission Wealth help women plan for healthcare costs and longer life expectancy?

Yes. Our retirement plans include thoughtful strategies for long-term care, medical expenses, and maintaining a high quality of life in your post-career years.

How can Mission Wealth help me plan financially after a significant life change?

Whether you’re facing widowhood, divorce, retirement, or inheritance, we specialize in guiding women through transition with clarity, compassion, and structure.

Will my Mission Wealth financial advisor listen to my needs before offering advice?

Absolutely. We begin every relationship by listening. Your story, goals, and values are the foundation of your financial plan, not a script we apply to everyone.

Can I work with a female advisor at Mission Wealth?

Yes. We have a strong team of experienced female advisors. We’ll make that connection if you feel more comfortable speaking with a woman advisor.

What sets Mission Wealth apart from other financial advisory firms for women?

We blend expert financial strategy with deep empathy. We don’t just manage wealth; we help women navigate transitions and growth with confidence and care.

Do current Mission Wealth clients need this app?

No. If you are a current Mission Wealth client, this app is not for you. Please visit our Client Login page for your app information.

What is the MissionForward fee schedule?

Under $500,000 in assets under management: $425/month Over $500,000 in assets under management: 1% AUM-based fee (current Mission Wealth fee schedule).

Is MissionForward a RoboAdvisor?

No. You have direct access to a CFP® professional who gets to know your full picture, not an algorithm or call center.

Is there a minimum assets under management requirement?

No, you can still take advantage of MissionForward’s financial planning capabilities even if you don’t have many liquid assets for us to manage. If you do have any assets, you can access Mission Wealth’s professionally managed portfolios.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

General FAQs About Mission Wealth

Better outcomes begin with better relationships. We listen before we talk, seeking to understand the unique path you’ve walked and the legacy you intend to leave.

Financial decisions are complex because they involve emotions and values, not just numbers. By integrating behavioral finance into our core planning process, we help you navigate the human side of wealth. From retirement to the sale of a business, we provide the steady guidance and continuity required to turn today’s transitions into tomorrow’s peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Investment Questions

A deeper dive into the investment practices we employ at Mission Wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions for Women Investors

At Mission Wealth, we understand that choosing a financial advisor is a profoundly personal decision, especially during transition or change. Below are some of the most common questions asked when exploring a relationship with our firm.

Frequently Asked Questions About MissionForward

Learn the answers to your questions and the next steps in your financial journey.

Kyle Buffo, smiling and dressed in a blazer, represents professionalism and expertise at Mission Wealth.

Kyle Buffo, CFP^®

Client Development Advisor

Let’s align your wealth with your purpose.

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Kyle Buffo, CFP®

Client Development Advisor

Let’s align your wealth with your purpose.

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