FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear, honest answers about 403(b) plans, retirement planning, benefits optimization, inheritance, job changes, and more for teachers, nonprofit employees, healthcare workers, first responders, and families on Long Island.
Schedule a VirtualWealth SessionComplimentary • No obligation • 45–60 minutes
01 About Atlas Benefits Advisor
Atlas Benefits Advisor provides unbiased, personalized financial planning and benefits optimization, especially for nonprofit employees, teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, families, and retirees on Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk counties). We combine comprehensive employee benefits review with modern wealth-building strategies.
We specialize in helping nonprofit “heroes” — teachers, healthcare professionals, first responders, and other nonprofit employees — along with families, retirees, and business owners. Our VirtualWealth sessions make high-quality advice accessible regardless of location.
02 Getting Started with Us
Our complimentary VirtualWealth sessions are 45–60 minute personalized financial planning meetings conducted virtually (no travel needed). They include education on investing, retirement strategies, tax efficiency, and maximizing your employee benefits — with no obligation or sales pitch.
Yes! We provide a complimentary 10-minute checkup for your 403(b) retirement plan and group life insurance. We'll show you what your plan is really costing you and suggest simple ways to improve it.
No. Our introductory VirtualWealth sessions and 403(b) checkups are completely free and come with no obligation.
The easiest way is to book directly on our Calendly:
Schedule a VirtualWealth Session.
You can also call us at 631-389-2358 or email admin@atlasbenefitsadvisor.com.
You can also call us at 631-389-2358 or email admin@atlasbenefitsadvisor.com.
We are a fiduciary advisor and prioritize unbiased recommendations. Our approach is transparent — we discuss compensation models (fee-only where appropriate) upfront so you always understand how we’re paid.
Our office is at 410 Motor Parkway, 2nd Floor, Hauppauge, NY 11788. We proudly serve clients across Nassau and Suffolk counties and offer fully virtual sessions for clients anywhere.
03 Retirement & Benefits Planning
A Traditional 403(b) uses pre-tax contributions, lowering your taxable income now, with taxes paid upon withdrawal in retirement. A Roth 403(b) uses after-tax contributions, so qualified withdrawals (including earnings) are tax-free in retirement.
A good target for most people is 10–15% of gross income (including any employer match). For teachers and nonprofit employees, we often recommend aiming higher if possible to supplement your pension.
Many 403(b) plans have high administrative and investment fees that can significantly reduce your retirement savings over time. Our free 403(b) checkup identifies hidden fees and explores lower-cost alternatives.
Pensions (like NYSTRS for teachers or public safety pensions) form the foundation of retirement income for many of our clients. We help you coordinate everything for tax efficiency and sustainable income.
The earlier the better — but it's never too late. We recommend starting a comprehensive plan at least 5–10 years before your target retirement date.
Healthcare is one of the biggest retirement expenses. We help evaluate retiree health benefits, HSA strategies, Medicare supplements, and long-term care planning.
Yes, in many cases you can consolidate old accounts into an IRA for better investment choices and lower fees. We review your specific plan rules and tax implications.
Early retirement requires careful planning for the healthcare coverage gap, inflation, longevity, and making your savings last 30+ years. We create customized retirement readiness plans.
04 General Financial Planning
There is no one-size-fits-all number — it depends on your desired lifestyle, pension, Social Security, and goals. We run personalized projections during your VirtualWealth session.
You can start as early as age 62, but waiting until Full Retirement Age or age 70 can increase your benefit significantly. We help you choose the best strategy.
Yes — an emergency fund is essential. Most people should aim for 3–6 months of essential living expenses; we often recommend 6–12 months for families or public servants.
We create a personalized asset allocation strategy that gradually reduces risk while still allowing for appropriate growth.
Strategic planning with Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawals, and timing of pension/Social Security can significantly reduce your lifetime tax bill.
A fiduciary advisor brings expertise, objectivity, and time savings while helping you avoid costly mistakes and coordinate all parts of your financial life.
05 Life Events & Special Situations
Receiving an inheritance is a significant life event that requires careful, thoughtful planning. First, take time to process emotionally.
Practical next steps include:
We help clients integrate inheritances thoughtfully so the money supports your goals and provides peace of mind.
Practical next steps include:
- Do not make any large spending or gifting decisions immediately — wait at least 6–12 months.
- Consult a fiduciary financial advisor, tax professional, and estate attorney early.
- Understand the tax implications (most inherited assets receive a step-up in basis).
- Decide how the inheritance fits into your overall financial plan.
- Review and update your own estate plan and beneficiary designations.
We help clients integrate inheritances thoughtfully so the money supports your goals and provides peace of mind.
Changing jobs is one of the most important times to protect your retirement savings. Key steps include:
We guide you through the rollover decision and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
- Decide what to do with your old 403(b), 401(k), or 457 plan (rollover is usually best).
- Review your new employer’s benefits and 403(b) plan.
- Update beneficiary designations and coordinate pension or retiree health benefits.
- Re-evaluate your overall financial plan.
We guide you through the rollover decision and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Marriage or divorce requires updating beneficiary designations, retirement accounts, insurance, taxes, and estate plans. We help create a coordinated plan that protects both parties.
A new baby brings new expenses and opportunities. We help you build or strengthen your emergency fund, review life and disability insurance, start or increase 529 college savings, and adjust your budget and retirement strategy.
529 plans offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for education. We help families balance college savings with retirement goals and explore scholarships, grants, and other strategies.
Still have questions?
We're here to help. Reach out anytime — our team is happy to provide clear, honest answers.
Working with a Financial Professional
Working with a financial professional can be one of the most important decisions you make. Check out this helpful guide to learn exactly why this may be your next best move.