Why Work With an Independent RIA Instead of a Big Firm?

1. A Fiduciary Standard—Always

At the core of the independent RIA model is a fiduciary duty. That means we're legally and ethically required to act in your best interest at all times. There’s no product quota, no incentive to steer you toward something that benefits the firm more than it benefits you.

At large institutions, many advisors operate under the suitability standard, which only requires that investments be “appropriate”—not necessarily optimal. That’s not good enough when you're talking about your life savings or generational wealth.

2. Tailored Retirement Planning That Reflects Your Life

As you approach retirement, there’s far more at stake than just your investment portfolio. Timing Social Security benefits, managing tax-efficient withdrawals, and structuring income that lasts 30+ years all require detailed, forward-looking planning.

Big firms often rely on templated models and general rules of thumb. As an independent advisor, I work one-on-one with clients to build retirement strategies tailored to your lifestyle goals, healthcare needs, family dynamics, and risk tolerance—not just your asset allocation.

This includes:

• Withdrawal sequencing to reduce taxes and preserve principal

• Roth conversion strategies timed for low-income years

• Long-term care planning that protects you and your family

• Customized income strategies using annuities, bond ladders, or dividends, when appropriate

No generalizations—just specific planning that fits your life.

3. Sophisticated Solutions for High-Net-Worth Families

Managing significant wealth comes with opportunities—and complexities—that generic advice simply can’t address.

Independent RIAs can offer:

• Tax-aware investing and coordination with your CPA or estate attorney

• Charitable giving strategies (e.g. donor-advised funds, charitable trusts)

• Concentrated stock management for corporate executives

• Alternative investments, when appropriate, sourced from independent platforms

• Custom portfolio construction using institutional-grade analytics from firms like BlackRock and Morningstar

Because we’re not tied to a single product platform or commission grid, we're free to recommend the tools and structures that best serve your objectives—whether it’s growth, income, tax efficiency, or wealth transfer.

4. Legacy Planning That Goes Beyond the Will

Legacy planning isn’t just about legal documents—it’s about preserving values, minimizing family conflict, and structuring wealth for long-term impact.

As an independent RIA, I work closely with estate attorneys and CPAs to:

• Build tax-efficient trust strategies (e.g. GRATs, SLATs, ILITs)

• Educate the next generation on wealth stewardship

• Coordinate beneficiaries across IRAs, trusts, and insurance policies

• Prepare for eventual long-term care needs that can derail even the best estate plans

Large firms may offer estate planning “services,” but they often stop at surface-level checklists. We go deeper—because your legacy deserves more than a standard packet and a call center follow-up.

5. Relationship-Driven, Not Sales-Driven

At a large institution, your advisor might be great—but they’re often constrained by firm policies, rotating service models, and quarterly sales metrics. Turnover is high, and your financial life may be handled by multiple people who barely know your name.

With an independent advisor, you get continuity. I work directly with every client and maintain a limited roster to ensure high-touch service. You're not just an account—you’re a relationship.

6. Transparent Fees and No Hidden Incentives

Independent RIAs typically operate on a fee-only or fee-based model—meaning we’re compensated for our advice, not for selling products. You know exactly what you’re paying, and more importantly, what you're paying for.

In contrast, many wirehouse advisors earn commissions or bonuses based on the types of investments or insurance they recommend. That can create conflicts of interest—subtle or not.

7. Access to Top-Tier Tools Without the Red Tape

Just because we’re independent doesn’t mean we’re under-resourced. On the contrary—we partner with top custodians like Charles Schwab and leverage institutional-quality tools from BlackRock, Morningstar, eMoney, and others to deliver powerful, data-driven insights.

The difference? We use these tools without corporate bias or internal pressure. It’s all about delivering what’s best for you, not what’s best for the firm.

Final Thoughts

Working with an independent RIA means partnering with someone who answers only to you—not shareholders, not branch managers, and not a product shelf.

Whether you're preparing for retirement, managing significant wealth, or planning your legacy, an independent advisor offers the clarity, objectivity, and commitment that your financial life deserves.

If you’d like to learn more or get a second opinion, I’d be happy to have that conversation.

The information provided herein is intended solely for general informational purposes and should not be interpreted as personalized investment advice or an individualized recommendation. Investment strategies discussed may not be appropriate for every investor. Each individual should carefully evaluate any strategy in light of their unique financial situation before making investment decisions.

All opinions expressed are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. While data presented may come from third-party sources believed to be reliable, Mietzner Wealth Management cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or reliability.

Any examples provided are purely illustrative and do not represent expected outcomes or guaranteed results.

This content is general in nature and is not intended to provide specific legal, tax, or investment advice. Tax regulations may change, potentially with retroactive effect. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, consult with qualified professionals such as a CPA, financial planner, or investment advisor before acting on any of the information provided.

Nothing in this material should be interpreted as a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, property approval, and applicable terms and conditions.

All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.