Merit Financial Advisors

Financial literacy starts at home.

In our latest blog, Wealth Manager and partner at Merit Financial Advisors, David Elder, shares how to prepare the next generation for financial success, including:

☑️ Teaching kids how to evaluate financial information online
☑️ Understanding their unique “Financial DNA” and money mindset
☑️ Building healthy saving and spending habits early

Small lessons today can make a lasting impact for generations to come.

Read the full blog on our website > https://ow.ly/rwAz50ZbZlz

🏆 We’re honored to be a winner of the 2026 Georgia Fast 40.

This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our clients, and the momentum we continue to build together.

CEO Rick Kent was proud to represent Merit at the event alongside Jooliana Krummel, Director of Growth Business Operations, as they celebrated this exciting achievement.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey and contributed to our continued growth.

📣 Investing in leadership for the future.

Merit Financial Advisors has expanded its executive leadership team with the addition of Doug Moore as Chief Financial Officer and Sarah Mouser, CFP®, as Executive Vice President of Financial Planning.

Alongside these strategic hires, Merit has also launched a new executive leadership development initiative in partnership with ClientWise, designed to strengthen collaboration, leadership alignment, and long-term growth across the organization.

Together, these investments reflect a continued commitment to supporting advisors, developing talent, and building a scalable foundation for the future.

Read more here:
https://ow.ly/mRBI50Z7He6

📈 Retirement planning becomes more complex as wealth grows.

In their latest blog, Kris Maksimovich, CPFA®, CRC®, CRPC®, and Chris Powers, CFP®, AEP®, explore advanced retirement planning strategies for high-net-worth individuals approaching retirement.

They share practical insights on managing wealth in retirement, from tax planning and income strategies to legacy and estate considerations.

Read the full blog here: https://ow.ly/tYOl50Z6I9U

🎓 529 plans can do more than help pay for college.

In recognition of 529 Day, Andrea Zoeller, CFP®, NSSA®, shares how high-net-worth families are using 529 plans as part of a broader legacy and wealth planning strategy. From front-loading contributions to new rollover flexibility under SECURE 2.0, these plans continue to evolve beyond traditional education savings.

Andrea also explores qualified expenses families may not realize are covered, strategies for maximizing long-term growth, and why starting early can make a meaningful impact over time.

Read the full blog here:
https://ow.ly/ZY9850Z5CrJ

📰 Featured in The Wall Street Journal

Kris Maksimovich, Wealth Manager and Partner, was quoted in The Wall Street Journal Buy Side article on fair market value and why it plays such an important role in financial planning.

His insights highlight how fair market value impacts everything from wealth transfers and estate planning to divorce settlements and investment decisions, emphasizing the importance of objective valuations and thoughtful planning.

Read the full article here: https://ow.ly/VfMT50Z5C9T

🎓 College planning starts earlier than most people think.

A 529 plan can be more flexible than many families realize. Funds can be used for qualified education expenses, grow tax-free, and may even be transferred to another eligible family member if plans change.

Starting early, even with small contributions, can make a meaningful difference over time.

Talk with an advisor to explore how education planning could fit into your long-term financial goals: https://meritfa.com/

In observance of Memorial Day, our offices will be closed as we take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

We wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday.