Frequently asked questions
What it costs, who we work with, where your money is held, and how the relationship works.
What does it cost?
1% of the investments we manage, stepping down as those assets grow, with a $10,000 annual minimum. The minimum is higher for more complex situations, like business ownership or multiple rental properties. Billed quarterly in advance. The full schedule is in the Form ADV, and you'll have your exact number before you sign anything.
What type of people do you work with?
People approaching retirement, moving out of work now, or already retired who have done the saving and want one coordinated plan for income, taxes, and investments. We work in an ongoing relationship through the transition and the years that follow. Who we serve covers this in full.
Where is my money held, and do I still own my accounts?
Your accounts stay in your name at Altruist, an independent custodian. Styra never holds your money, and you receive statements directly from Altruist.
Do I have to move all my accounts to you?
No. We manage the accounts you choose to move, and we advise on the ones that stay where they are, such as your current employer's 401(k). That advice is included.
Do I have to commit long-term?
No. The agreement can be ended with 30 days' written notice, and anything paid in advance for time after that is refunded.
What is your investment philosophy?
Your portfolio's job in retirement is to pay you reliably, for as long as you need it. We own a broad, low-cost slice of markets around the world, take only as much risk as your plan requires, and keep a reservoir designed to help keep your monthly paycheck coming when markets drop. Jacob is also a CPA, so investment decisions are made with your tax bill in view. And when markets get scary, part of our job is helping you stay the course.
I already have a CPA. Can I still work with you?
Yes, and we will not try to replace them. Jacob is a CPA himself, so the plan is built off your actual return. You keep your CPA, Styra handles the planning and the investments, and we work with them directly on anything that changes the return: a Roth conversion, a harvest, a large distribution. When an accountant refers a client to us, the tax work stays with them.
Do I need to be local to work with you?
No. We work with clients across the country. All meetings are virtual unless you are local to Phoenix and prefer to meet in person.
Are you a fiduciary, fee-only advisor?
Yes. We are a fiduciary at all times, and Styra is a fee-only firm. No commissions and no product sales.