Janney Montgomery Scott - JMS Financial Consultants
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Greg Brissette

Greg Brissette - Raleigh, NC
gbrissette@janney.com
toll free:  (800) 567-2119
tel:  (919) 791-3824
fax:  (919) 788-2051

4140 Parklake Ave.
Glenlake One, Ste. 300
Raleigh, NC 27612




Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do you work with companies on small business retirement plans?

A: First, we meet to determine what is important to both the company and its employees in creating a retirement plan. Other considerations would be corporate structure, number of employees, the ability to participate in profit sharing, etc. We will then consult with some of the best providers in the retirement plan business to generate a proposal. I can then assist people with enrollment, investor education and other important financial matters, as well as monitor the plan. If requested, we can assist with putting you in touch with a third party administrator (TPA) for recordkeeping and reporting requirements (if necessary).



Q: How aggressive should I be when I invest for retirement

A: There are many factors to consider. These include your salary, assets, risk tolerance and time horizon. The conventional model is to invest aggressively when young and then move gradually toward a more conservative portfolio. However, with people retiring earlier, living longer and engaging in an active retirement lifestyle today, each situation should be assessed independently.



Q: Should I contribute to my 401(k) plan at work?

A: Absolutely! A 401(k) plan is one of the best investment vehicles you can use to save for your retirement. Remember, your contributions to a 401(k) plan are not taxed as current income. The money held in a 401(k) plan grows tax deferred.



Q: What options do I have if I inherit an IRA or benefit from an employer-sponsored plan?

A: There are many options to consider. A lump-sum distribution is one option but may not be the best one as it may result in a large income tax bill. You might want to consider, instead, taking periodic distributions or rollover the inherited IRA into your own. There are many rules that apply in this decision making process so it’s important to consult an advisor.



Q: Can I contribute to a Roth IRA?

A: It depends. You must have earned income during the year. Your eligibility for a Roth IRA will be based on two primary considerations: your adjusted gross income for the year and your income tax filing status.



Q: What does the term "qualified plan" mean?

A: A qualified plan is an employer-sponsored retirement plan that qualifies for special tax treatment under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.



Q: Are my pension benefits insured by the federal government?

A: The federal government insures certain pension benefits such as defined benefit plans through the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency created by ERISA. It does not insure other types of retirement plans.



Q: What is Monte Carlo and how can it help me plan for retirement?

A: Monte Carlo financial simulations are becoming a popular investing tool. These analyses project and illustrate the probability that you'll reach your financial goals. The simulation takes into consideration many variations in the volatility of investment returns.



Q: What is the firm strength of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC?

A: Various industry events continue to affect the financial markets, investors, and certain firms. It is important to all of us at Janney that our clients know that due to our policies and business practices, we have experienced minimal, if any, negative impact from these industry events.



Q: When I set up a meeting, am I under any obligation?

A: No, consultations are free. This way you can come in, meet with me and make sure you are comfortable before we get started.



Q: How do you charge for your services?

A: Your account can be fee-based or commission based. It depends on what is best for you.



Q: Can I buy no-load funds like Vanguard?

A: Yes, through your fee-based Partners or Keystone account, no-load funds, even Vanguard Funds are available.



Q: I already have an insurance agent and accountant I am working with. Can you coordinate with them to create an integrated financial program using input from each?

A: Absolutely! Many of our clients have other financial relationships. If we can fill a need or work with someone you know already, we will be happy to do whatever is best for you.



Q: I think it's time to start planning for retirement. Where do I begin?

A: First, set retirement goals. At what age do you see yourself retiring? What would you like to do during retirement? What debt do you expect to have? How much should you set aside for basic living expenses? Then see how much income you will need and what sources will fund that income stream. A detailed personal financial plan can help you get started.



Q: Exchange Traded funds are often recommended? What are they and should I consider ETFs for my portfolio?

A: Exchange Traded Funds have been increasing in popularity since the mid 1990's. They are relatively low in costs and offer excellent diversification.



Licensed in the following state(s): CA, FL, GA, ID, IN, KS, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, SC, WI

   

 
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