Frequently Asked Questions
Working With Us
Do you have a minimum investment amount?
Yes. We work with individuals and couples who have at least $250,000 in investable assets, which allows us to provide the high-touch service and planning depth that retirement deserves.
Who do you typically work with?
We specialize in working with retirees and those within 10 years of retirement. Our clients value clarity, personal service, and a relationship with an advisor who understands the unique complexities of this life stage.
What makes Bedard Financial different?
We focus exclusively on retirement. We are fiduciaries, meaning we always act in your best interest. Our advice is personal, not product-driven, and we’re committed to long-term relationships – not one-time transactions.
Do I need to live near your office?
Not at all. We serve clients throughout Ontario and much of Canada using secure video calls, phone, and email. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual meetings, you’ll receive the same level of personal attention.
How do you charge for your services?
We operate on a fee-based model, meaning we charge a transparent percentage of the assets we manage for you. No hidden commissions or product sales—just objective advice focused on your best interests.
Planning & Investment Questions
How do you help me prepare for retirement?
We guide you through a comprehensive planning process that includes:
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Clarifying your goals and financial situation
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Building a retirement income strategy
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Reducing tax exposure
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Managing investment risk
Planning for long-term care or other unknowns
The result? A clear, actionable plan tailored to your life.
How do you manage investments?
We create diversified, goal-aligned portfolios based on your unique situation. Our approach is research-driven, cost-conscious, and built for long-term success. We rebalance as needed and provide regular updates, so you always know where you stand.
When should I start CPP or OAS?
We analyze multiple timing options to help you choose the one that best suits your needs, factoring in longevity, taxes, other income streams, and your lifestyle goals.
What happens if the market drops after I retire?
We use a strategy called bucketing – which separates your short-, medium-, and long-term assets – to help you weather market volatility. Your plan will include income buffers, diversified investments, and sustainable withdrawal strategies to keep you on track, even in turbulent times.
Taxes
Do you offer tax preparation too?
Yes. Unlike many advisory firms, we provide in-house tax preparation (for a fee) and planning. This allows us to look at your full financial picture and help you:
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Minimize tax in retirement
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Plan efficient withdrawals
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Coordinate tax strategies with your investments
Can you help with estate planning?
Yes, while we don’t draft legal documents, we coordinate your estate plan with your lawyer and accountant. We help clarify your legacy goals, ensure your accounts are aligned with your wishes, and help you prepare for efficient wealth transfer.
Getting Started
How do I know if I’m ready to retire?
That’s one of the biggest questions we help answer. Through our retirement planning process, we’ll analyze your income needs, investment assets, government benefits, and spending goals to determine if – and when – you can retire comfortably.
What if I already have an advisor?
It’s perfectly okay to seek a second opinion. We often meet with individuals who are already working with someone but want to know if they’re truly on the best path. There’s no pressure or obligation – just clarity.
Are We the Right Fit for You?
Finding the right investment advisor is about more than credentials – it’s about trust, communication, and shared values. We offer a complimentary consultation so you can see if we’re the right team to guide you.
Let’s talk about your goals and how we can help you feel confident in your retirement.