Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Financial Independence
Ruggaard & Associates & Associates has been delivering fee-only financial planning, investment management, and tax services since 1993. Our fiduciary approach prioritizes client interests through transparent, personalized strategies grounded in trust, skill, and integrity. With over 25 years of combined experience, our team specializes in holistic financial independence solutions tailored to individual goals. We guide clients through retirement planning, estate optimization, education funding, and tax-efficient strategies while maintaining rigorous due diligence in market research and portfolio management.Our collaborative environment ensures continuous monitoring and adaptation to economic changes, supported by quarterly reporting and digital client access tools. This long-term partnership model reflects our commitment to accountability and client-centric financial outcomes.
Services
Financial Planning
Investment Management
Tax Services
Retirement Planning
Estate Planning
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- Fee-only fiduciary services prioritizing client interests
- 25+ years of combined financial planning expertise
- Customized, holistic approach to financial independence
- Quarterly performance reporting and digital client access
- Comprehensive risk management and tax optimization strategies
Associations and certifications
- Securities and Exchange Commission Registered Investment Advisor
Services
Financial Planning
Our financial planning service creates personalized roadmaps to financial independence through comprehensive analysis of current status and future goals. We address retirement readiness, estate optimization, education funding, and risk management while integrating tax-efficient strategies. With over 25 years of experience, we develop adaptive plans that evolve with life changes and market conditions, ensuring long-term financial security through quarterly monitoring and client collaboration.
Investment Management
We offer customized investment management with strategic asset allocation and portfolio construction tailored to individual risk tolerance and objectives. Our research-driven approach combines market analysis with risk mitigation strategies, providing transparent reporting and regular performance reviews. With expertise in equity research and global markets, we deliver diversified solutions that align with clients' financial goals and ethical considerations.
Tax Planning
Our tax planning service focuses on minimizing liabilities through proactive strategies implemented year-round rather than just filing season. Certified professionals analyze clients' financial situations to identify deductions, credits, and structuring opportunities while coordinating with broader financial plans. This integrated approach ensures tax efficiency across investment decisions, estate planning, and retirement distributions.
Retirement Planning
We develop retirement plans that ensure financial security through strategic savings, investment growth, and income distribution planning. Our approach considers Social Security optimization, pension structures, and healthcare costs while maintaining liquidity for immediate needs. Regular reviews ensure plans adapt to changing regulations and personal circumstances, with implementation support for tax-advantaged accounts and withdrawal strategies.
Estate Planning
Our estate planning service maximizes wealth transfer efficiency through wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations. We coordinate with legal professionals to implement gifting strategies, charitable giving, and tax mitigation techniques. The process ensures clients' wishes are honored while minimizing probate complexities and tax burdens, with ongoing updates to reflect life changes and legislative updates.
People
Randy Ruggaard
President
President with decades of financial planning experience, Randy graduated from Miami University and earned an MBA from Case Western Reserve. He combines technical expertise with personal financial guidance, balancing professional responsibilities with outdoor activities and family time.
John D. May III
Vice President
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER with University of Akron education, John specializes in translating complex financial concepts into actionable plans. With community involvement and family focus, he helps clients make informed decisions about their financial futures.
Ryan Ruggaard
Director of Research
Director of Research with international equity experience, Ryan holds Miami University credentials and has worked at Credit Suisse and Bard Associates. Fluent in three languages, he combines global market insights with local investment strategy development.
David Sleeter
Co-Portfolio Manager
Chartered Financial Analyst with University of Illinois background, David brings 15 years of wealth management experience. His expertise spans institutional and private client portfolios, balancing analytical rigor with practical financial advice.
Cynthia C. Allen
Senior Tax Manager
Certified Public Accountant with Virginia Tech degree, Cynthia combines KPMG experience with H&R Block tax preparation expertise. She manages investment billing and client services while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Questions
What financial planning services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive financial planning covering retirement, estate, education, and tax planning with personalized strategies for achieving financial independence.
Are you a fiduciary financial advisor?
Yes, as Registered Investment Advisors we operate under a fiduciary duty to prioritize client interests through transparent, fee-only services.
How do you handle investment management?
We create customized portfolios using market research and risk assessment, with quarterly performance reviews and ongoing adjustments to meet financial goals.
What areas do you serve?
We serve clients nationwide from our offices in Hudson (OH), Chicago (IL), and Oak Brook (IL), offering digital access for remote clients.
How are your fees structured?
We maintain a transparent, fee-only model without commissions, ensuring recommendations align with client interests rather than product incentives.
What qualifications do your advisors hold?
Our team includes Certified Financial Planners, Chartered Financial Analysts, and Certified Public Accountants with decades of combined industry experience.
