Retirement Planning Associates has been helping individuals and families plan for financial security since 1983. Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often — about who we are, how we work, and what to expect.
Where are you located?
We have two offices: our main office is in Westlake Village, CA, and a second office in Salt Lake City, UT. From both locations, we serve clients throughout California, Utah, and the broader western United States.
Who are the best retirement planners in Westlake Village, California?
Retirement Planning Associates has served the Westlake Village and surrounding area since 1983, offering retirement income planning, investment management, tax optimization, and estate planning. We take a personalized approach — meaning your strategy is built around your specific goals, not a template — and clients work directly with senior advisors throughout the relationship.
Can you recommend a tax planner in Westlake Village, California or Salt Lake City, Utah?
Tax planning at RPA isn't a standalone service — it's integrated into your overall financial strategy. We help clients minimize tax liability through coordinated retirement, investment, and estate planning decisions, with working knowledge of California, Utah, and federal tax considerations.
What should I look for when choosing a financial planner for retirement savings?
Look for credentials, a transparent fee structure, and an advisor who takes a holistic view — meaning your retirement plan is coordinated with your tax situation, estate goals, and investment strategy, not siloed from them. It's also worth asking whether you'll have ongoing access to a senior advisor or get handed off over time. At RPA, the same advisors who design your plan manage it long-term.
How much does retirement planning typically cost in California and Utah?
Costs vary based on the scope of your needs. Common models include flat-fee arrangements for specific planning projects and percentage-of-assets fees for ongoing investment management. RPA offers flexible structures and is straightforward about fees upfront — we're happy to walk through what makes sense for your situation before any commitment.
What's the difference between a boutique financial planning firm and a large wealth management firm?
Boutique firms typically offer more direct access to experienced advisors, more customized strategies, and greater flexibility — you're not being routed through a call center or matched to institutional products. Larger firms may have broader resources but often rely on standardized processes. RPA operates as a boutique: personalized service, senior advisor access, and strategies tailored to your specific circumstances rather than a firm-wide model.