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Learn More About Me

I believe in the value of life-centered, holistic financial planning.

That is why comprehensive life-centered financial planning and wealth management are all inclusive. I utilize an engaging and educational approach in partnering with a select group of clients aspiring to create a life they love and to leave a legacy that lasts.

I cover all aspects of personal finance, organize information in a way that makes sense to you, and always look out for your best interest. I talk though any topics you don't understand, never judge, and even when it's tough, tell you the things you may need to hear. 

I manage your investments in a way that is aligned with your unique investment strategy that we develop together based on your comfort with market volatility, your time horizon, and your goals. At Catalyst Wealth Planning we provide clarity and empower success.


Working With Women Is Important To Me

Being a woman myself, I know all too well how demanding life is for women. I deeply respect their intelligence and hard work. I know from experience the challenges women face balancing career and important responsibilities at home. Although I serve clients from all walks of life and at every stage of life, I recognize that serving women in particular, both married and single, increasingly calls for a specialized approach.

Despite advances, the obvious truth is working women are still the primary caregivers to children and aging parents - sometimes at the same time. I know firsthand what it’s like to be the primary household organizer and cleaner. I too have been the primary menu planner, food shopper, cook, and dishwasher. I know what it’s like to make sure people and pets are signed up, arrive, and picked up where they need to be. I’ve also made sure homework is done, the yard is mowed, the car is maintained, and social networks meet approval.

Managing personal finances is very important to women but they do not have the time or desire to become financial experts themselves. I am honored to be the confidant that understands their situation and the expert they depend on as their financial guide to living a life they love. Women choose to work with me because they know I respect their feelings, appreciate their time constraints, and will always put their interest first.



Philanthropy and Strategic Gift Planning

At Catalyst Wealth Planning, we are called to make a meaningful difference in our local and global community. Providing strategic gift planning and services to generous donors allows me to make a larger impact than I ever could on my own. It is an honor and privilege to learn about the causes that mean the most to the generous donors I work with through my annual gift planning process. Following this process will allow these generous donors to make a bigger difference than they may have thought possible while protecting them and their family’s interests.

Fran McKay, CFP®, AAMS®, CRPC® Photo

Fran McKay, CFP®, AAMS®, CRPC®

Independent Financial Advisor

Fran has earned the professional designations of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor, and Accredited Asset Management Specialist. She also holds Series 7, Series 66, and Insurances licenses allowing her to provide investment and insurance advice and services. Fran is committed to continuous education in order to continuously deepen her knowledge and increase the value she brings to her clients. She limits the number of households she serves in order to give each client the service they deserve and the expertise they need to achieve their most important financial goals.

Since becoming a Financial Advisor, Fran has been able to pursue her passion guiding individuals and families with their financial strategies as well as volunteering in the community. Fran is an active volunteer in Rotary and has served in leadership roles on several not-for-profit Foundations. Fran conducts financial workshops, speaks at conferences, and may be available to speak at your next event.

Fran holds Bachelor and Master degrees in Engineering.  She worked twenty-two years in the chemical manufacturing industry in Houston and Chicago. Early in her first career, Fran developed a passion for personal financial management and decided she would become a Financial Advisor in a second career. She made this career change in 2014.  Her only regret is not doing it sooner!

Fran now resides in Washington state with her husband and youngest of five children. She is also the proud grandmother of five grandchildren. Fran loves to sail, ski, and travel with her family. She also enjoys listening to podcasts and reading books.

PHONE

309.388.2450

FAX

309.388.2455



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Compensation

Today, financial advisors are compensated in a number of different ways for the services and products they offer. I prefer to work with my clients on a fiduciary basis. The flat fee and fixed rate compensation models are aligned with the fiduciary standard. The fiduciary standard states that an advisor must always act in the best interests of her clients and place clients' best interests before her own. It also means that an advisor must make sure to provide financial advice that is sound, accurate, and free from conflicts of interest. Furthermore, fiduciaries are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest to their clients, and must strive to transact on behalf of clients in a manner that's as efficient and low-cost as possible.

I prefer to serve as a fiduciary for my clients, however, there are cases where I will provide commission-based products and services to my clients either because they are not available on a fee-basis or because I believe it is suitable for the client. For example, most insurance and annuity products are only available on a commission basis. If I believe the purchase of one of these products (life insurance, disability insurance, long-term care insurance, annuities) is in the best interest of my client, I will recommend them. Similarly, if a client has already purchased one of these products and would like me to be the agent of record so I can serve the client in the management of these products, I may do so. Commission based products and services are tied to the suitability standard rather than the fiduciary standard. The suitability standard dictates that a financial professional can only recommend investments that are suitable for her clients. We believe the industry is moving toward more fee-based products, but until insurance and annuities are widely available on a fee-basis, I will continue to allow commission-based products in my practice to ensure I can fully service my clients’ needs.