Financial Advisors and Wealth Managers in Jacksonville, FL
Contact us today to learn more about what our award-winning team can do for you.
Accolades:
Our Jacksonville, FL Office
Contact
Phone: 904.733.1123
Fax: 904.733.9952
Toll-Free: 1.888.733.1102
Location
8826 Goodby’s Executive Dr.
Suite B
Jacksonville, FL 32217
Business Hours
Mon - Fri (8AM - 4:30PM)
Sat - Sun (Closed)
Our Team
Bill Traer
Director of Mergers and Acquisitions
Meet Bill >
Bill Traer
CPA™, CFP®
Director of Mergers and Acquisitions
Bill Traer is the Director of Mergers and Acquisitions for Merit focusing on growing the company thru strategic relationships with other financial advisory firms. He enjoys playing a part in expanding the company thru mergers and acquisitions. Bill received a Bachelor in Business Administration from the University of North Florida where he received his CPA™ and CFP®. He likes to spend time with his extended family, traveling, skiing, charitable activities, and other active pursuits.
Christine Ley
Client Development Manager
Meet Christine >
Christine Ley
Client Development Manager
As a Client Service Manager, Christine is responsible for managing the day-to-day administrative needs of our affluent clients. She oversees client communication through social media, monthly newsletters, and emails. Christine is also involved in answering client inquiries and managing key documents to ensure all necessary paperwork has been completed and recorded properly. Christine’s skills in this area enhance our clients’ experience and add to our reputation as a firm that seeks to provide exceptional service and support.
Christine graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University, and prior to joining Merit, earned her realtors license and began practicing residential real estate as a Real Estate Associate.
Stephen Frick
Wealth Manager, Partner
Meet Stephen >
Stephen Frick
CRPC®
Wealth Manager, Partner
Stephen Frick is a Wealth Manager for Merit Financial Advisors in Jacksonville, FL. He brings to the table 17 years of experience in both the banking and wealth management industries. Stephen believes that wealth management is more than providing advice on how to invest your money. His approach is built on the foundation that every individual has unique goals and priorities and that a sound financial plan should be tailored to meet what's most important to you. As a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CRPC®), Stephen focuses on educating his clients on the important financial decisions that come with planning for and successfully navigating through retirement.
Stephen was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL, attending Bishop Kenny High School. From there, he attended the University of Florida, graduating from the Warrington College of Business with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Mass Communications.
Stephen and his wife Olivia are proud parents to their son Finn and daughter Elle. The Frick Family spends their time attending church, the kid's soccer matches and basketball games, and playing cards and board games. When he isn't spending time with family, Stephen is an avid golfer and enjoys attending sporting events and concerts. If you asked his closest friends, they'd tell you his true passion is music and sports trivia. He loves a good-natured challenge, so be sure to let him know if you have a good trivia question you think will stump him!
Andrew Carag
Client Service Associate
Kristen Carithers
Wealth Manager
Meet Kristen >
Kristen Carithers
CRPC®
Wealth Manager
Kristen Carithers, holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and recognized as a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC), holds the role of Wealth Manager at Merit. Demonstrating commitment to aiding clients in formulating well-structured financial trajectories for their retirement, Kristen's proficiency in this domain is underscored by her academic attainment of a master's degree in finance from The University of North Florida. With seven years of dedicated service within the financial sector, she has honed her expertise predominantly in retirement planning. Kristen is a native of Florida, and she enjoys reading, exploring through travel, and spending quality moments with her children.
Gayle Terrebonne
Client Service Manager
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 Jacksonville
- 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 Jacksonville, FL
Our service areas include:
- Ponte Vedra Beach
- San Marco
- Riverside
- Avondale
- Amelia Island
- Fleming Island
Achieve Financial Success with Merit Financial Advisors
Merit provides expertise, personalized planning, and ongoing support to achieve your financial goals. Our services in Jacksonville 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.