FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your questions answered

What is a fiduciary?

A fiduciary is someone who is legally obligated to act in your best interest and be able to prove it in a court of law. Securities-licensed advisors at Ronald Gelok & Associates are fiduciaries.  

Do I have to pay for our first meeting?

No. We believe everyone should get to know their advisor before they do business. You need to understand what we do and how it could benefit you first. Bring your financial questions with you to your first free session and determine for yourself if an advisor from RGA would be a good fit for you.  

How does RGA get paid?

Investment advisory services, accounting services, and legal services are fee based. Anything related to insurance (ie – life or health insurance) is commission based.    

I have no idea how much money I should be spending now so that I don’t have an income shortfall later. Can RGA help with that?

Yes! Retirement income planning can be complicated. Too many retirees run out of money before they run out of breath.   

I have an elderly parent whose health is going downhill. I’m seeing firsthand how expensive it can get. What if that happens to me? I want to know what to do, but I don’t want to spend thousands of dollars a year on expensive long-term care insurance. Are there other ways to deal with this that make more sense?

Yes, there definitely is. This is an area where what you don’t know can cost you big time. We’ll give you all the facts.  

Why should I work with you over my current advisor or myself?

You could go it alone or stick with an advisor you’re used to, or you can choose to work with an RGA advisor who prioritizes tax-advantaged, tax-deferred, and tax-free ways of growing and saving your money.  

Do I have to come to the office?

No. We offer virtual meetings via zoom or telephone meetings. In-person meetings are available for those who prefer coming into the office.

How do I know you’re acting in my best interest rather than being motivated by commission?

When it comes to investment advice we are bound by the fiduciary standard – we are legally obligated to act in your best interest! When a client is interested in purchasing insurance, we help them determine which option they feel is best for them. We believe clients should fully understand the choices available to them.   

I have money that is in different types of accounts: IRAs and 401k, bank and brokerage accounts, etc… I don’t know the best order to access these funds. Is that something RGA knows how to do?

Absolutely. Looking through the fine details and sorting through the variables is  a big part of what RGA does. We help make clear what order you should spend what money to keep my taxes as low as possible.    

Why should I deal with all this now?

Some problems left unaddressed only get worse with time. For example, you may have a gut feeling that you’re taking on too much risk in your portfolio but decide to do nothing. Then we hit a bear market and you wish you had fixed the problem sooner. We know that over time little problems turn into big problems. At RGA, we believe in “results-in-advance” planning so you can avoid a negative outcome.  

YOU DESERVE BETTER

At RGA, we know you want to be financially free. To get there you need a smart plan that covers all areas of your financial life. The problem is a cookie-cutter plan from the average advisor is not truly customized to your unique situation. You deserve better. We understand that going through financial details and complexities can feel daunting. That’s why we do it for you by using a multidisciplinary team approach to financial planning. At RGA, we give every client concierge-level access to in-house tax attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, and licensed insurance professionals. Our team creates a 5 Pillar Financial Blueprint that includes tax reduction, portfolio stress-testing, investment coaching, retirement income road-mapping, and specialized estate planning. So book an appointment to stop worrying and start taking control of your future.

ACHIEVE YOUR DREAM RETIREMENT WITH RGA

01

Book your free
Strategy Session

02

Create your
customized plan

03

Enjoy retirement
on your terms!

Investment advisory services offered through Ronald Gelok & Associates, LLC, a multi-state Registered Investment Advisor.
Insurance products offered through Ronald Gelok & Associates, Inc., a multi-state Licensed Insurance Producer.
Securities Offered through AAG Capital, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC

Privacy Policy | ADV Part 2A | ADV Part 2B | ADV Part 2A Wrap

Information about securities-registered professionals may be found at FINRA BROKERCHECK.
Member FINRA/SIPC

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your questions answered

ACHIEVE YOUR DREAM RETIREMENT WITH RGA

01

Book your free
Strategy Session

02

Create your
customized plan

03

Enjoy retirement
on your terms!

What is a fiduciary?

A fiduciary is someone who is legally obligated to act in your best interest and be able to prove it in a court of law. Securities-licensed advisors at Ronald Gelok & Associates are fiduciaries.  

Do I have to pay for our first meeting?

No. We believe everyone should get to know their advisor before they do business. You need to understand what we do and how it could benefit you first. Bring your financial questions with you to your first free session and determine for yourself if an advisor from RGA would be a good fit for you.  

How does RGA get paid?

Investment advisory services, accounting services, and legal services are fee based. Anything related to insurance (ie – life or health insurance) is commission based.    

I have no idea how much money I should be spending now so that I don’t have an income shortfall later. Can RGA help with that?

Yes! Retirement income planning can be complicated. Too many retirees run out of money before they run out of breath.   

I have an elderly parent whose health is going downhill. I’m seeing firsthand how expensive it can get. What if that happens to me? I want to know what to do, but I don’t want to spend thousands of dollars a year on expensive long-term care insurance. Are there other ways to deal with this that make more sense?

Yes, there definitely is. This is an area where what you don’t know can cost you big time. We’ll give you all the facts.  

Why should I work with you over my current advisor or myself?

You could go it alone or stick with an advisor you’re used to, or you can choose to work with an RGA advisor who prioritizes tax-advantaged, tax-deferred, and tax-free ways of growing and saving your money.  

Do I have to come to the office?

No. We offer virtual meetings via zoom or telephone meetings. In-person meetings are available for those who prefer coming into the office.

How do I know you’re acting in my best interest rather than being motivated by commission?

When it comes to investment advice we are bound by the fiduciary standard – we are legally obligated to act in your best interest! When a client is interested in purchasing insurance, we help them determine which option they feel is best for them. We believe clients should fully understand the choices available to them.   

I have money that is in different types of accounts: IRAs and 401k, bank and brokerage accounts, etc… I don’t know the best order to access these funds. Is that something RGA knows how to do?

Absolutely. Looking through the fine details and sorting through the variables is  a big part of what RGA does. We help make clear what order you should spend what money to keep my taxes as low as possible.    

Why should I deal with all this now?

Some problems left unaddressed only get worse with time. For example, you may have a gut feeling that you’re taking on too much risk in your portfolio but decide to do nothing. Then we hit a bear market and you wish you had fixed the problem sooner. We know that over time little problems turn into big problems. At RGA, we believe in “results-in-advance” planning so you can avoid a negative outcome.  

YOU DESERVE BETTER

At RGA, we know you want to be financially free. To get there you need a smart plan that covers all areas of your financial life. The problem is a cookie-cutter plan from the average advisor is not truly customized to your unique situation. You deserve better. We understand that going through financial details and complexities can feel daunting. That’s why we do it for you by using a multidisciplinary team approach to financial planning. At RGA, we give every client concierge-level access to in-house tax attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, and licensed insurance professionals. Our team creates a 5 Pillar Financial Blueprint that includes tax reduction, portfolio stress-testing, investment coaching, retirement income road-mapping, and specialized estate planning. So book an appointment to stop worrying and start taking control of your future.

Investment advisory services offered through Ronald Gelok & Associates, LLC, a multi-state Registered Investment Advisor.
Insurance products offered through Ronald Gelok & Associates, Inc., a multi-state Licensed Insurance Producer.
Securities Offered through AAG Capital, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC

Privacy Policy | ADV Part 2A | ADV Part 2B | ADV Part 2A Wrap

Information about securities-registered professionals may be found at FINRA BROKERCHECK.
Member FINRA/SIPC

You did it! Check your email for your free guide!

BETHANY J LONGFELLOW
Creative Director
862.207.3891
bethany@ronaldgelok.com

BETHANY J LONGFELLOW

Creative Director

862.207.3891

bethany@ronaldgelok.com

 

Bethany works remotely from her home in southwest Missouri. As Creative Director with her Bachelor of Fine Arts focused in Design and Photography from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, Bethany handles all the graphic design, web development, videography, and photography for RGA. She also manages event planning and other marketing functions to ensure RGA is available to everyone who wants personalized planning to live their dream retirements.

When Bethany’s not working, you can usually find her with her two horses, Sassy & Jax, and her two hounds, Banjo & Heidi. 

Email Sent!

TAMMIE BARONE
Director of Client Services
862.207.3841
tamara@ronaldgelok.com

TAMMIE BARONE

Director of Client Services

862.207.3841

tamara@ronaldgelok.com

 

Tammie has over 20 years’ experience working with and assisting financial advisory firms and has been a dedicated team member at RGA for nearly 5 years. As the Director of Client Services at the firm, she is the “go to” for all of our clients’ needs. Tammie maintains her Life and Health Insurance license in NJ, is dearly cherished by our clients, and if you ask any one of them, they will tell you that her passion is helping people.

Born and raised in Morris County, Tammie currently resides in Essex County, where she enjoys any outdoor activities, cooking and spending time with family, friends and her 2 dogs.

Email Sent!

CHRISTIAN VIVAS
Financial Planning Agent
862.207.3851
christian@ronaldgelok.com

CHRISTIAN VIVAS

Financial Planning Agent

862.207.3851

christian@ronaldgelok.com

 

Christian is a New Jersey native and received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Rutgers University in 2007 and 2010 respectively. He is an intricate member of the Financial Planning Team whose primary focus is on Income & Expense Projection and Lifetime Income Needs. He provides our clients with a comprehensive and educational explanation of the solutions that RGA provides that is easy to understand. Christian developed our Income Tax Reduction Analysis and spearheads strategic research initiatives for new, innovative solutions to retirement planning. Christian also oversees all marketing content and procedures while assisting with business development initiatives.

Outside of the firm, Christian spends his time teaching group fitness at YMCAs and private gyms. At home he unwinds by listening to music, taking care of his Guinea Pigs, and spending time with his wife Sarah, and their dog Chimichanga.

Email Sent!

ALINA ESTRIN
Executive Assistant to Brian Ginty
862.207.3868
alina@ronaldgelok.com

ALINA ESTRIN

Executive Assistant to Brian Ginty

862.207.3868

alina@ronaldgelok.com

 

Alina was born in Russia, so she is fluent in English and Russian. Prior to joining RGA, Alina worked for the NJ State after carrier with Lehman Brother. Additionally, Alina has a PhD in economics. As Executive Assistant to Brian Ginty, Alina prepares applications, reviews documents, and analyzes illustrations prior to Brian presenting them to our future clients.

Outside of RGA, Aline continues her many years a Yoga, Thai Chi, and Pilates instructor.

Email Sent!

CHRISSY BODEN
Director of ContentStrategy
862.207.3841
chrissy@ronaldgelok.com

CHRISSY BODEN

Director of ContentStrategy

862.207.3841

chrissy@ronaldgelok.com

 

Chrissy (Gelok) Boden is a New Jersey native who lives with her husband and two children. Chrissy works with the RGA team, assisting with marketing strategy and content. After earning her Bachelors at Messiah College (2012) and a Masters in Counselling from Eastern University (2014), Chrissy worked as a school counsellor and academic registrar. Now Chrissy is using her experience in counselling and educational leadership to support organizational communications at RGA in order to maximize client care and experience.

When not working, Chrissy's time is mostly spend in the company of her two highly active toddlers, along with family and friends. When she has time to herself, Chrissy loves reading books, riding bikes, discovering new music, and brewing good coffee.

Email Sent!

BRIAN T GINTY, CSSC
Financial Advisor & Certified Structured Settlement Consultant
862.207.3843
brian@ronaldgelok.com

BRIAN T GINTY, CSSC

Financial Advisor & Certified Structured Settlement Consultant

862.207.3843

brian@ronaldgelok.com

 

Brian was a Senior Vice President for The Halpern Group, a company which facilitated the establishment of trusts for plaintiffs in personal injury disputes. In addition to The Halpern Group, Brian has held senior management positions both at AIG Domestic Life Companies and Prudential Financial. He was also National Sales Director and Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at two of the largest structured settlement brokerage firms.

During his career, Brian has successfully negotiated more than 1000 cases throughout the United States and Canada.  He has been a leader in integrating trust and other financial vehicles to provide comprehensive financial strategies for tort victims. 

Brian is a regular speaker at legal seminars and meetings including the American Association for Justice, the North Carolina Association for Justice and the New Jersey Association for Justice.

Brian is a veteran of the United States Navy where he served as a cryptologist in Misawa. Japan.  During his three years in Japan, Brian played for the base soccer team as well as coached the high school team.  He also taught English and attended the University of Maryland, Far East Division.  He graduated magna cum laude with a dual major in Business Management and Psychology.  Upon his discharge Brian enrolled in Rutgers Graduate School of Management while he began his career in the financial services industry. 

Email Sent!

RGA Website - Our Team - Bio Helena

HELENA MATTIOLI

Operations Coordinator

862.207.3846

helena@ronaldgelok.com

 

As RGA's Operations Coordinator, Helena ensures the company functions efficiently and effectively on a day-to-day basis. She is a vital part of both the Operations and Retirement Planning Teams. With both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ramapo College, Helena continues to use her education and prior work experience to continue to go above and beyond for RGA and our clients.

Outside of RGA, Helena enjoys spending time with her beloved cats, Rosie and Jelly. She also enjoys reading and spending time with her family.

Email Sent!

THOMAS J SMITH, MBA, JD, LLM
Director of Tax Reduction Planning
862.207.3846
tom@ronaldgelok.com

THOMAS J SMITH, MBA, JD, LLM

Director of Tax Reduction Planning

862.207.3846

tom@ronaldgelok.com

 

Bio coming soon.

Email Sent!

MORGAN KELLY WINTRINGHAM
Director of Operations
862.207.3808
morgan@ronaldgelok.com

MORGAN KELLY WINTRINGHAM

Director of Operations

862.207.3808

morgan@ronaldgelok.com

 

Morgan is an invaluable asset with over twelve years of experience within the financial services industry and has been with RGA for nine of those years. Morgan is known as the octopus of RGA, involved in every aspect of the firm. Morgan’s primary role is working alongside the Operations and Advisory Teams to ensure our clients’ and prospective clients’ ideal retirements are mapped out and achieved according to their individual needs and goals. Her main objective is to provide the ultimate client concierge experience, and is responsible for onboarding new team members to ensure our clients receive top tier service.

Outside of RGA, Morgan enjoys spending time with her husband, Stephen, her family, and absolutely loves being with her nieces and nephews. Morgan is a lover of music and movies, interior design, cooking, and doing absolutely nothing!

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THE 3 BIGGEST SECRETS OF TAX-ADVANTAGED RETIREMENT

THE 3 BIGGEST SECRETS OF TAX-ADVANTAGED RETIREMENT

You may be surprised how easy it is to achieve a tax-advantaged retirement. Learn how to reduce your retirement taxes and increase your income in retirement by downloading our free PDF guide: The 3 Biggest Secrets of Tax-Advantaged Retirement. .

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