Our RIA
What is an RIA?
Registered Investment Advisor ("RIA") is a financial firm which provides investment management services to its clients under a fiduciary relationship. Some RIAs also offer financial planning services (we do!), to help clients make decisions outside of the investment world. Depending on its size, an RIA can be registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or with the states where it operates. Because we have over $100 million in client assets under management, we are able to register with the SEC and have chosen to do so. *
RIAs operate on a fee-based model, which we feel helps reduce the risk of investment selections being driven by commissions or product incentives. RIAs like us are held to a fiduciary standard of care when managing investment assets for clients, which we strive to meet every day.
Who is Evergreen Wealth Partners LLC?
Evergreen Wealth Partners, LLC is the company that we created to function as our RIA, while Harris Financial is the local, family-owned brand name that our clients have known for decades. This structure allows Harris Financial to share compliance oversight and operational costs with other like-minded advisory firms, while maintaining the relationship and personalized service our clients expect. If you choose to work with us, nearly all of your interactions and communication will be directly with Harris Financial. You may notice the name "Evergreen Wealth Partners LLC" on certain forms or disclosures; this is to help us stay in compliance with SEC regulations. This approach helps us keep costs lower, maintain strong regulatory standards, and stay focused on what matters most - helping you reach your financial goals.
*Being SEC registered does not imply endorsement, approval, or that an investment is a good one. It also does not guarantee the accuracy of all information provided, as companies can still face enforcement actions for fraud or misrepresentation. Registration simply means a firm or offering has met certain disclosure and filing requirements.