Southward Financial Services, LLC

Tax preparation service in Pickerington, OH (show on map)

Fiduciary and fee-only financial planning, investment management, and tax preparation services for middle-income and clergy clients in central Ohio.

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About

Southward Financial Services, LLC provides financial planning, investment management and tax preparation services to middle-income and clergy clients in the central Ohio area. We have served families and individuals for the last nineteen years and look forward to helping you meet your financial goals and dreams.

We believe that everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing their financial life is on track and that you can accomplish what is important to you. Consequently, we do not require a minimum portfolio or income level to work with a client. We are different from other firms you may have worked with in the past. We are: A fiduciary. You will receive the highest standard of care and your interests are always placed ahead of ours. By law and by choice, we place your interests first. Fee-only. Our only compensation comes from the fees that you pay – there are no commissions or hidden charges. We are advisors, not salesmen. Goal-driven. Your goals and dreams drive our process in working with you. Teachers. We work with you so that you always understand what is recommended and are comfortable with the plans.

Fiduciary and fee-only approach

Specialized clergy financial resources

Goal-driven, personalized investment strategies

No minimum portfolio or income requirement

Services

Financial Planning

Comprehensive financial planning tailored to individual client needs, covering goals, risk tolerance, and investment strategies.

Goal setting Risk assessment Investment strategy development Ongoing review and adjustment

Investment Management

Personalized investment strategy focusing on goal alignment, risk tolerance, and tax efficiency.

Goal-based portfolio construction Diversification to manage volatility Tax and fee minimization Use of no-load mutual funds and ETFs

Tax Preparation and Planning

Specialized tax services for individuals, with a focus on clergy and unique financial considerations.

Clergy-specific tax resources W-2 preparation for clergy Housing allowance guidance Congregational financial management

Credentials & Certifications

Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)

Since 1999

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Since N/A (implied from background)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a fiduciary and a non-fiduciary financial advisor? +

A fiduciary is legally and ethically obligated to act in the client's best interests, placing the client's needs ahead of the advisor's own. Non-fiduciary advisors are not required to meet this higher standard and may prioritize their own commissions or the interests of their employer.

How does Southward Financial Services, LLC compensate for its services? +

Southward Financial Services, LLC is a fee-only firm. The sole source of compensation is the fees paid directly by the client, with no commissions or hidden charges from any recommendations made.

What services are available for ordained clergy? +

Southward Financial Services, LLC offers specialized resources for ordained clergy, including clergy taxation guidance, housing allowance planning, W-2 preparation, and congregational financial management.

What is the investment philosophy of Southward Financial Services, LLC? +

The firm's investment philosophy emphasizes goal-based portfolio construction, diversification to manage volatility, tax and fee minimization, and the use of no-load mutual funds and ETFs to keep costs low and client understanding high.

How does the firm work with clients to achieve financial goals? +

The firm begins with a detailed examination of the client's current financial position, followed by goal setting and recommendation development. A draft report is presented for client feedback, and the process iterates until the client is comfortable with the plan, which may include limited hourly planning, annual retainers, or portfolio-based fees for ongoing management.