Financial Advisors and Wealth Managers in Spokane, WA
Contact us today to learn more about what our award-winning team can do for you.
Accolades:
Our Spokane, WA Office
Contact
Phone: 509.462.0747
Location
111 South Post Street
Suite 2260
Spokane, WA 99201
Business Hours
Mon - Fri (8:30AM - 4:30PM)
Sat - Sun (Closed)
Our Team
Paul Viren
Wealth Manager, Partner
Meet Paul >
Paul Viren
CLU, ChFC, AEP
Wealth Manager, Partner
Paul is a graduate of Whitworth University, Spokane, Washington and has received his credentials from the American College as a Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant. He is a PKS Investment Advisory Representative along with securities registrations 7 and 24 held at PKS Financial and 66 held through PKS Financial, as well as life and health insurance.
He works with his spouse, Beth, and together they have built a successful practice of financial planning, managing over $250 million in client assets. They also provide services to employers and individuals for retirement plans, health insurance, life, disability and long-term care insurance.
In 2017 he became President of the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils having served on the Board since 2011. He is the past president of the Spokane Estate Planning Council, is an active member with Spokane Rotary Club 21, active member of the Spokane Club and has served on many boards and civic groups in the community.
Paul is an avid backpacker and runner, loves to turn wooden pens from exotic wood from around the world and wine tasting…not at the same time!
CA Lic #0D31713
Holly Byrum
Branch Operations Manager
Meet Holly >
Holly Byrum
Branch Operations Manager
Holly joined the team in August 2016. She started as the Administrative Assistant where she assists Paul, Mike and Cassie with the preparation of client portfolio reviews, creating new accounts, completing various client requests and special projects. Currently, she was promoted to Branch Office Manager, where she will oversee the Spokane office, ensuring excellent customer service and continuing to work alongside the advisors and supporting our clients.
Holly obtained her Life & Health Insurance License in 2012 and sold Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans. After her career change, she obtained FINRA registration in 2019 by passing her series 6 and 63.
Holly was born and raised in Spokane where she met her husband and married in 2010! She stays busy with her two kids playing sports, exploring the outdoors, riding bikes, fishing and hiking.
Mike Smalley
Wealth Manager
Meet Mike >
Mike Smalley
CFP®
Wealth Manager
Mike Smalley is a Wealth Manager for Merit. He was employed by Charles Schwab in their Seattle, Washington office where he worked as a Registered Financial Associate. He has been in the financial services profession since 2008 and brings a wealth of experience with him. Mike grew up in Spokane graduating from Mount Spokane High School. He received his B.S. from Purdue University with a degree in Financial Counseling and Planning. Mike holds his FINRA securities registrations Series 6, 7, 63, through PKS Financial & 66 through PKS Financial. Mike is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™.
In his spare time, Mike loves the outdoors. His favorite time of year is summer when he can get out to Diamond and Spirit Lake, as well as floating down the Little Spokane River. He enjoys playing basketball and spending time with his family in the Spokane area.
Gwen Giddens
Client Service Manager
Meet Gwen >
Gwen Giddens
Client Service Manager
Gwen has been part of the team since January 2009 after working in the life insurance industry for Jim O’Connell for 23 years. She is our Insurance Coordinator. Licensed in Life and Health Insurance, she uses her wealth of experience to guide clients through the insurance process.
Gwen spends her free time being a “Grammy,” camping, watching sports and enjoying time with her family.
Cassie Frederiksen
Wealth Manager
Meet Cassie >
Cassie Frederiksen
CFS
Wealth Manager
Cassie Frederiksen is a Wealth Manager for Merit. She has worked hard to complete the training and testing required to become securities registered. Over the years, Cassie has proven to be a dedicated employee with a go-getter attitude receiving several promotions. She is excited to be meeting with some of our Advisory clients as well as many of the 401(k) participants in the plans that we manage.
Cassie is FINRA registered with her Series 6, 7, and 63 registrations held through PKS and her Series 66 registration and has also earned her Life & Health Insurance License in Washington State and her CFS® (Certified Fund Specialist®).
Cassie grew up in Spokane and, after graduating from Central Valley High School, earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho – GO VANDALS! She, along with her husband, stays busy working full-time and raising two beautiful girls (born in 2014 and 2017). Cassie thoroughly enjoys being a wife and a mommy! In her free time, she can be found traveling, enjoying her family cabin on Lake Coeur d'Alene, curled up with a good book, or exploring local events, attractions, and restaurants.
Karen Holcomb
Client Service Manager
Meet Karen >
Karren Holcomb
Client Service Manager
Karen has been in the insurance industry since 1991 and obtained her Life and Health License in 2009. She has spent this time assisting clients on both the corporate and employee service side. This experience gives her a unique knowledge of how to best serve individuals and groups with the sometimes complicated web of ever-changing regulations that comprise life insurance, individual and group benefits. As part of the Team, Karen is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service to clients on both the Employee Benefits side along with the Policy Service side.
Karen enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys traveling, reading, entertaining and watching sports.
Our Financial Solutions
Financial Planning
We create personalized financial plans that adapt to your life’s twists and turns. By understanding your unique needs, we help you make smart decisions that support your goals now and in the future.
Wealth Management
Our wealth management strategies are all about growing and protecting your assets. We’ll work together to build a plan that makes sense for you, so you can confidently navigate the ups and downs of the market.
Life Transitions
Life is constantly changing, but that doesn't mean your financial goals have to. Whether it’s retirement, divorce, a career change, or widowhood, our team is here, ready to tackle whatever transition you are preparing for or already are experiencing.
Insurance Planning
Life happens—our insurance planning services help protect what matters most. We’ll find the right solutions to safeguard your assets and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
For Businesses
Running your business is both a joy and a challenge that deserves careful planning and guidance. We’ll work closely with you to understand your business’s unique challenges and opportunities and offer customized strategies to address them.
Your Path to
Financial Success
Tailored financial plans that cater to your unique needs and goals
Expert guidance and strategies backed by years of industry experience
Wide range of services, including retirement planning, investment management, and tax planning
Frequently Asked Questions
At Merit Financial Advisors, we specialize in managing complex financial portfolios. Our team of experts uses a comprehensive approach to provide sophisticated solutions tailored to your diverse investment, business, and real estate holdings. We ensure every aspect of your wealth is strategically managed to meet your unique needs.
The Details
Understanding Financial Planning
Financial planning is a comprehensive process that helps set and achieve long-term financial goals. At Merit Financial Advisors, we assess your current financial situation and create tailored strategies for saving, investing, and managing your wealth. Our advisors ensure your plan is aligned with your goals, providing ongoing support and adjustments as needed.
Types of Financial Planning Services We Provide
At Merit Financial Advisors, we offer a comprehensive range of financial planning services designed to meet your unique needs:
- Financial Planning: Comprehensive analysis of your financial health, including budgeting, savings strategies, and debt management to build a strong financial foundation.
- Wealth Management: Personalized investment management to grow and preserve wealth, continuously monitoring and adjusting to optimize performance.
- Estate Planning: Creating wills, trusts, and legal documents to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimize tax liabilities.
- Insurance Planning: Identifying and mitigating financial risks with life, disability, and long-term care insurance to protect you and your family.
- Retirement Planning: Setting retirement goals, estimating future expenses, and creating savings plans to ensure a secure and comfortable retirement.
Why You Need a Financial Advisor
- Expertise: Specialized knowledge in financial planning, investment management, and wealth management.
- Customized Plans: Tailored financial plans to meet your specific needs and goals.
- Access to Financial Products: Wide range of financial products and services, including advanced investment strategies and estate planning tools.
- Ongoing Support: Continuous guidance to keep you on track with your financial goals.
- Commitment to Service: Personalized service and continuous support for achieving and maintaining financial success.
Finding the Right Financial Advisor in Spokane
- Certifications: Look for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® or Chartered Financial Analyst® designations.
- Reviews: Check online reviews and client testimonials.
- Experience and Expertise: Evaluate their background and the services they offer.
- Fiduciary Duty: Required to act in the best interests of clients.
- Transparency and Communication: Clear and honest about fees and services.
- Approach: Understand their strategy for financial planning and investment management.
How Financial Advisors Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Financial advisors create customized financial plans tailored to your individual needs and goals. They offer ongoing support and guidance, ensuring your plan adapts to life changes and market fluctuations. At Merit Financial Advisors, we provide comprehensive advice and support to help you achieve financial success. Our team makes informed decisions during significant life events and maintains focus on your long-term goals.
Overview of Merit Financial Advisors
Merit Financial Advisors enriches clients' lives with personalized financial planning and wealth management. Our team includes CFP®s and CFA®s who excel in managing complex portfolios, optimizing taxes, and developing estate plans. We provide detailed, tailored plans addressing all aspects of your financial life, ensuring your success with confidence and clarity.
Merit’s Service Areas Outside of Spokane, WA
Our service areas include:
- Liberty Lake
- South Hill
- Five Mile Prairie
- Manito
- Spokane Valley
- Mead
Achieve Financial Success with Merit Financial Advisors
Merit provides expertise, personalized planning, and ongoing support to achieve your financial goals. Our services in Spokane and surrounding areas include advanced investment management, tax optimization, and estate planning. Partnering with Merit ensures comprehensive financial solutions tailored to your unique needs, guiding you to long-term success with confidence and clarity.