1. Discovery call
Schedule a complimentary video call to discuss your career path, family, and financial goals.
We’ll explore how our advice-only financial planning services can help you build long-term wealth.
2. Sign agreement
Review and sign the agreement, then pay initial planning fee.
($2,500 individual - $3,250 couple)
The ongoing monthly fee starts one month later.
($417/mo individual - $542/mo couple)
3. Data organization
Gather and upload financial documents for review. Your information is securely organized in a private online dashboard.
Here is our document checklist.
4. Fact check
Verify that your information is accurate and discuss your financial priorities and personal values.
5. Plan development
We create a tailored financial plan, identifying opportunities to strengthen both your finances and career.
This process takes up to two weeks.
6. Plan presentation
We present your financial plan, refine it as needed, and prioritize your next steps.
View a sample financial plan.
7. Implementation & ongoing
Execute your plan while we guide you through next steps and ongoing financial decisions.
View our annual service calendar.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Who do you help?
Motif Planning primarily works with music executives and high-earning professionals in the music industry. Our clients include label executives, business managers, entertainment attorneys, artist managers, and other industry leaders navigating complex compensation structures, taxes, and long-term wealth strategies.
We also work with select professionals across the music and entertainment industry, including concert promoters, publicists, publishing administrators, and touring professionals, as well as high-income earners in other industries seeking expert financial planning.
If you’re unsure whether we’re the right fit, schedule a call to discuss your financial needs.
What am I committing to?
Financial planning is a collaborative process. Your success depends on your commitment. You’ll need to gather key financial documents, engage in honest discussions, and take action on recommendations.
Planning engagements start on the 1st of the month and require 30 days’ notice to cancel. No questions asked. But if you’re not fully committed to the process, this likely isn’t the right fit. The clients who see real results are the ones who actively participate and follow through.
What do meetings look like?
All meetings are virtual and structured to keep your financial plan on track.
- Initial planning: We start with 3–4 meetings to build your plan and prioritize next steps.
- Ongoing check-Ins: We meet twice a year to update your plan, adjust for life changes, and refine strategies.
- On-demand support: Reach out anytime between meetings to schedule a call when major decisions arise.
We act as your accountability partner, helping you stay on track and make informed financial decisions.
Do you manage or take custody of my investments?
No, Motif Planning does not manage or take custody of your investments. We provide independent advice, analysis, and ongoing monitoring to help you make informed investment decisions.
You stay in control of your assets. We guide you on strategy, allocation, and tax efficiency while ensuring your investments align with your financial goals.
Do you sell products or make commissions?
No. Motif Planning is a fee-only fiduciary, which means we are paid solely by our clients. Never by commissions, product sales, or third parties.
We always act in your best interest, and our only compensation comes from the flat fee we agree upon. No hidden fees.
What if my situation isn’t ‘complex’ enough?
Many people assume they need a complicated situation to work with a planner, but complexity looks different for everyone. If you earn six figures or more, holistic planning can help uncover priorities and opportunities you didn’t even know to look for.
How do I know you’ll add value?
I’ve spent years in both the music industry and financial planning, and I’m a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) who’s worked with clients across all income levels, career stages, and life transitions. My work is grounded in real experience and backed by technical training. Clients get a written comp strategy, tax map, and financial plan built around their goals, not guesswork.
I like the approach, but is it really worth the cost?
Yes, the financial value is real. Many clients recoup the fee through smarter tax moves, equity decisions, and benefits planning. But the bigger return is peace of mind, having a professional to take it off your plate, and confidence that you’re making the right calls.
Why do I pay an upfront fee and an annual retainer?
The upfront fee covers onboarding: deep data review, compensation modeling, and a full financial plan. The annual retainer covers ongoing work like tax planning, mid-year changes, and on-call support throughout the year.
Is the fee tax-deductible?
Personal financial planning fees aren’t deductible under current law, but a portion related to business planning may be. It’s worth checking with your CPA.
Can I cancel or pause?
You can cancel at any time with 30 days’ notice, and I’ll refund the unused portion of your retainer.
How do I pay?
Payments are processed securely through AdvicePay using either a credit card or direct deposit. There are no additional fees for credit card payments.
Motif Planning does not store or collect your payment information. All transactions are handled through a secure third-party platform.
Where do I upload documents?
You’ll upload your documents to RightCapital, a secure platform that consolidates all your financial information in one place.
RightCapital also offers a mobile app, allowing you to easily access and manage your documents on the go.