Welcome to Retirement Planning Associates
At Retirement Planning Associates, we go beyond being just a financial services firm - we are your trusted partner in shaping a secure and prosperous financial future. With over 40 years of experience, we specialize in providing comprehensive personal financial and wealth management services tailored to your unique goals. Whether you're preparing for retirement, creating a legacy, or navigating life's financial complexities, our unwavering commitment to honesty, knowledge, and trust ensures you have a reliable guide every step of the way.
We proudly serve individuals and families across the United States, with a strong presence in the western states, especially California. While our offices are based in Westlake Village, California, and Salt Lake City, Utah, our reach extends far beyond. We work with clients nationwide and make it a priority to stay personally connected. Mr. Nielsen travels extensively --often piloting his own airplane --to meet with clients where they are, ensuring they receive the guidance and personal attention they deserve.
Wherever you are on your financial journey, we're here to help you navigate with confidence.
Our Commitment to You
At Retirement Planning Associates, we are dedicated to helping you achieve financial confidence and freedom. Whether you’re planning for retirement, building wealth for the future, or seeking professional guidance to manage your finances, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Join us on a journey to financial success, where expertise, personal care, and trust come together to create a brighter and more secure future for you and your family. Discover how Retirement Planning Associates can make a meaningful difference in your life.
Our Story
The Beginning: Helping others has always been the goal
Some people start companies in their garage. For John Nielsen, it was in the spare bedroom of a two-bedroom apartment in Camarillo, CA. He had finished college, married, and was no stranger to hard work. Throughout all this, he increasingly found himself drawn to helping people with their personal finances.
In 1984, John opened his doors as Retirement Planning Associates after achieving certification as the 2307th Certified Financial Planner (there are now over 80,000). Clients would sit down with John while he helped them untangle the confusing world of finances.
At Retirement Planning Associates, helping others always has been and still is our primary goal.
The Business: Wisdom and Experience
As John's family began to grow, so did his business. He quickly gained a reputation as a trusted Advisor with a comprehensive knowledge of financial planning and investment management. For decades, he has educated the public on financial planning, investment management, and estate planning through university courses, corporate seminars, and community programs.
Over the years, John has weathered numerous financial storms. From the stock crash of 1987 to the growth of the 90's (ending with the burst of the Dot.com bubble), the anxiety leading up to Y2K, and the corporate malfeasance of the early 2000s, he has consistently steered his clients towards stability.
With years of experience, John’s knowledge blossomed into wisdom in weathering societal change and uncertainty. Today, Retirement Planning Associates is a full-service Financial Services firm, serving hundreds of clients all across the United States.
The Family and Community
John and his wife, Denise, have seven children and two grandsons. When he's not with family, John works four full days a week in the office. With clients all over, he loves flying his airplane to local airports to meet with clients, family and friends.
Why doesn't John retire? He's having way too much fun!
John has taken years to build a legacy of trust and unwavering commitment. His story is a testament to the values that define us at Retirement Planning Associates – integrity, knowledge, and genuine care for clients.
When you choose Retirement Planning Associates, you're choosing a team rooted in a legacy of service and excellence. Trust us to guide you through the complexities of financial planning, and let our family be an essential part of yours.