Frequently Asked Questions

One of the most significant benefits of working with Murdock Banner Financial Group is our unique, team approach to financial planning. Choosing an advisor is a decision that should be made with careful thought and consideration. It will be a relationship as important as choosing a doctor or dentist. Where you trust your doctor with your physical needs, we are entrusted with your financial needs. These needs will grow and become more important as your life and goals change over time. In addition, you are also getting the advice of not one, but four seasoned advisors backed by a licensed Client Service Team. This unique structure allows us to confidently help you plan for your future. Our advisors each have their own style, but regardless of who you meet with, you will receive the same first-class service.

No. We believe it is never too early or too late to start planning. We have accounts ranging from a $20 per month contribution to accounts where we manage several millions. No matter what your current situation, we will work with you to assess your goals and form a plan appropriate for you. 

Our team of advisors hold the following accredited professional designations and have years of financial services experience. Craig Coen, who has a Master’s of Business Administration, as well as his Chartered Financial Consultant^® (ChFC^®) and Chartered Life Underwriter^® (CLU^®) designations has 20 years of industry experience. Chad Appleton has the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM (CFP®) designation and has 10 years of industry experience. Carla Curry has the professional designation of Chartered Financial Consultant^® (ChFC^®) and has worked in the financial services industry for over 22 years. Seth Petsch has the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM (CFP^®) and Chartered Financial Consultant^® (ChFC^®) professional designations.

We will make it work! We have clients in over 43 states and service each just the same as if they were right here in Warrensburg, Missouri. Our advisors are able to review with you over the phone or Zoom video conferencing. Phone and Zoom reviews are also a great option for those on-the-go whose schedules do not allow for an in office review even located nearby.

Unlike many other firms or planners, our advice is not dictated by a product provider, meaning, there is no outside business encouraging our advisors to place your money in certain funds or into certain products. This freedom of choice allows our advisors to tailor their planning to your specific goals. In essence, no outside business owns Murdock Banner Financial Group. We are on the same side of table as you.

To be a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, an advisor must have:

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher)
• Three years of full-time personal financial planning experience
• Pass CFP-board registered program or hold one of the following
  • CPA
  • ChFC^®
  • Chartered Life Underwriter
  • CFA
  • Ph.D. in business or economics
  • Doctor of Business Administration
  • Attorney’s License
• Pass 10 hour certification exam
• 30 hours of continuing education every two years
• Ethics requirement
  • Commitment to provide personal financial planning in the client's best interest and to act in accordance with the highest ethical and professional standards for the practice of financial planning. Evaluated every two years.

The CFP^® designation is important to you because it is demonstrates an elevated level of care and commitment for you and your planning and your assets.