The fast-paced world of technology often brings substantial financial rewards — from stock options and RSUs to startup equity and high six-figure salaries. Yet, managing this wealth effectively requires a specialized approach. Tech professionals, with their unique income streams and lifestyle goals, need expert wealth management services that align with their financial complexity.
In this article, we’ll explore top wealth management firms tailored for tech professionals, what services they offer, and how to choose the right one for your goals.
Why Tech Professionals Need Specialized Wealth Management
Tech professionals face financial situations that are often more complex than traditional high-income earners. Some key challenges include:
- Equity Compensation: RSUs, ISOs, and NSOs require careful planning to optimize tax outcomes.
- High Volatility: Tech careers can be unpredictable, especially in startups.
- Shorter Career Spans: Burnout or career switching is common in tech, making early financial independence important.
- Global Mobility: Many professionals relocate across states or countries, triggering tax and compliance considerations.
Because of these unique dynamics, a generic financial advisor may not be equipped to serve tech workers effectively.
Top Wealth Management Firms for Tech Professionals
Below is a curated list of leading firms known for serving clients in the tech industry.
1. Facet Wealth
Location: Nationwide (Virtual)
Best For: Mid-career tech professionals with growing assets
Minimum Assets: No minimum
Services Offered:
- Equity compensation planning
- Tax strategies
- Student loan optimization
- Retirement planning
Why Techies Love It: Facet offers subscription-based pricing and dedicated CFP®s, making it affordable and transparent — ideal for those early in their wealth journey.
2. Abacus Wealth Partners
Location: California-based, serves nationwide
Best For: Tech employees with social impact goals
Minimum Assets: ~$500,000
Services Offered:
- Holistic financial planning
- Impact investing
- Estate and legacy planning
- ESG portfolios
Why Techies Love It: Many tech professionals are passionate about sustainability and giving back. Abacus blends personal wealth with purpose-driven investing.
3. Kovar Wealth
Location: Texas, serves virtually
Best For: Tech startup founders and engineers
Minimum Assets: $250,000
Services Offered:
- Equity liquidity strategies
- Pre-IPO planning
- Tax-loss harvesting
- Alternative investment access
Why Techies Love It: Their in-depth understanding of startup equity events makes them a great fit for early-stage entrepreneurs and engineers with complex compensation packages.
4. Brighton Jones
Location: Seattle-based, with offices in major tech hubs
Best For: Senior-level tech executives
Minimum Assets: $2 million
Services Offered:
- Executive compensation planning
- Multi-generational wealth
- Philanthropy planning
- Tax and legal coordination
Why Techies Love It: They offer high-touch services for individuals with significant wealth complexity, including concierge-level support and deep integration with tax professionals.
5. XY Planning Network
Location: Nationwide, virtual
Best For: Young tech professionals and freelancers
Minimum Assets: No minimum
Services Offered:
- Goal-based financial planning
- Freelance income optimization
- Side-hustle financial strategy
- Subscription-based pricing
Why Techies Love It: Tailored for Gen Z and millennials, XYPN advisors specialize in planning without asset minimums — ideal for those just starting in tech or navigating contract work.
Comparison Table: Wealth Management Firms for Tech Workers
| Firm Name | Best For | Minimum Assets | Key Services | Pricing Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Facet Wealth | Mid-career professionals | None | Tax planning, equity compensation, retirement planning | Subscription-based |
| Abacus Wealth | Impact-focused professionals | ~$500,000 | ESG investing, estate planning, philanthropy | AUM % / Flat Fee |
| Kovar Wealth | Startup employees/founders | $250,000 | IPO planning, RSU strategy, tax loss harvesting | AUM % |
| Brighton Jones | Senior executives | $2 million | Multi-gen wealth, concierge service | AUM % |
| XY Planning Network | New tech workers/freelancers | None | Side hustle planning, freelance income strategies | Subscription-based |
Key Services You Should Look For
When choosing a wealth management firm as a tech professional, ensure they specialize in the following areas:
✔ Equity Compensation Planning
Understanding the tax implications of RSUs, stock options, and ESPPs is critical. A good advisor will help you:
- Decide when to exercise or sell
- Plan for AMT (alternative minimum tax)
- Diversify away from concentrated stock holdings
✔ Tax Optimization
Wealth managers should coordinate with CPAs to minimize your tax burden using:
- Tax-loss harvesting
- Roth conversions
- Charitable giving strategies
✔ Investment Management
Look for firms that use:
- Diversified portfolios (not just tech-heavy)
- Low-fee ETFs or customized portfolios
- ESG or thematic investing, if aligned with your values
✔ Retirement & FIRE Planning
If you aim to retire early (FIRE), find a firm experienced in cash flow modeling and safe withdrawal strategies tailored for high earners.
Choosing the Right Wealth Management Firm
Here’s a checklist to follow when evaluating wealth management firms:
| Criteria | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Tech-Specific Expertise | Do they have experience working with tech professionals or startup founders? |
| Fee Structure | Is it commission-free, flat-fee, or based on assets under management (AUM)? |
| Credentials | Are they certified (CFP®, CFA®, CPA)? |
| Fiduciary Duty | Are they legally bound to act in your best interest? |
| Comprehensive Planning | Do they address equity, taxes, investments, insurance, and estate planning? |
| Communication Style | Do they use modern tools like Zoom, Slack, and client portals for easy updates? |
Virtual vs. Local Wealth Advisors
Most modern wealth management firms now offer virtual advising, which is highly convenient for tech professionals working remotely or living in high-cost urban centers. However, for those who prefer in-person interactions or local knowledge (especially for tax laws), choosing a firm with offices in your city may still be valuable.
Final Thoughts
As a tech professional, your financial life is likely to evolve quickly. From landing your first six-figure job to navigating equity windfalls and planning for early retirement, having the right wealth management firm by your side is essential. Whether you’re fresh out of a coding bootcamp or a seasoned CTO, there’s a firm tailored to your unique needs.
Start by identifying your goals — early retirement, startup liquidity, philanthropy, or simply more free time — and choose a firm that understands both the technical and emotional sides of wealth.
FAQs
Q1: What is the ideal asset level to hire a wealth management firm?
Many top firms serve clients with $500,000+ in assets, but newer models like Facet Wealth or XYPN serve tech professionals at any stage, regardless of asset size.
Q2: Can I use a robo-advisor instead?
Robo-advisors are great for passive investing, but they fall short in personalized planning, tax strategies, and equity compensation — areas where tech professionals need guidance.
Q3: How much does a tech-savvy financial advisor cost?
It varies — some charge a flat monthly fee ($100–$400), while others charge a percentage of AUM (typically 0.5%–1%).