Philip Ellis
Founder | Advisor | IAR, CSA, NSSA
Phil has been helping people for over two decades make sure they have their ABCs covered when it comes to retirement. He knows that the relationship he builds with everyone he works with goes far beyond his knowledge of finance. "Most of my clients invest all their money with me, so it's a very sacred thing."
When he first started in this business, he noticed that many financial firms put all their clients' money in the stock market, even people who were just getting ready to retire. Phil wasn't comfortable with that as a retirement planner, so he chose the independent route with a fiduciary responsibility to his clients.
"It's important for people to understand the intricacies of making decisions about Social Security, Medicare and an income plan. I have a fiduciary responsibility, which means that I have to do what's in your interest, not mine."
He uses a straightforward way to help people look at their money. It's called the ABC process, and it's all about putting your money in the proper category. Phil also helps you understand fees, both what's disclosed and what isn't, and the cash drag on your account. If you don't know what that means, he'll explain it when you call.
Personally
You've heard the old saying, "he's a guy that's never met a stranger"? It holds true in the case of Phil Ellis. The most important part of his job is finding out, respecting, and understanding your story.
His family is incredibly important to him. He has two daughters, and every year he tries to take one of them on a trip. One year it was Utah: "We did Bryce and then Zion National Park. We climbed to the top of Angels Landing." His wife Catie is his rock, and they have a lot of fun together. Both are active in local ministries.
Once you become a client, you become family. And it's a wonderful place to be.