Otto and Associates - What We Do

Otto & Associates, Inc. offers consultation and expertise in the following areas:

Investments
Retirement Planning
Budgeting and Cash Management
Tax Planning
Insurance Analysis
Estate Planning

Regarding investments, we manage assets almost exclusively by using no-load mutual funds, but we also offer advice on other types of investments such as Closed End Funds, company retirement plans, and alternative investments. Our goal is to help clients achieve the security of a diversified portfolio that will provide a solid return without undue risk. Otto & Associates buys and sells investments in consultation with our clients and, because we do not accept commissions, our clients receive unbiased asset evaluation, selection, and management. Investments are generally reviewed quarterly, or more frequently if warranted. Monthly reports are furnished by the Charles Schwab Company, and Otto & Associates is always available to review these reports with clients.

In analyzing retirement issues, we help clients answer such questions as: "Will I be able to maintain my standard of living when I retire?" and "Which retirement option offered by my employer is best for me?" We also provide advice on loans and credit management, mortgages and refinancing, and savings planning. In addition, to guard against unforeseen events, Otto & Associates will examine and evaluate existing life, auto, homeowners', umbrella liability and other insurance policies to determine whether clients have adequate coverage. We will also assist with income tax planning and estate planning issues, including wills, trusts, and living wills.

The first step in working with clients is a general meeting, for which there is a $450 charge. Sometimes that first meeting is all that is needed. Normally, however, at that meeting specific financial needs are identified, and within a few days clients are presented a written proposal that includes estimates of the amount of time the task will take and cost. Once the contracted work is completed, Otto & Associates can further assist clients through regular specific services, which are billed hourly or on a retainer basis. Often clients request that we manage their assets, which we do when assets are over $250,000, charging an annual fee of 1%, payable quarterly in advance. This fee is reduced to 0.5% for assets in excess of $1,250,000.