Biography of Skip West
Skip West is a seasoned financial professional with over 20 years of experience in the field As the founder and primary financial advisor at the West Financial Group in Wildwood, FL, he has established himself as a trusted expert in the industry
In his current role as president, CEO, and chief financial advisor at West Financial Group, Skip leads a boutique-sized independent financial planning firm Since its inception in 2003, the firm has specialized in assisting retirees and pre-retirees in developing comprehensive long-term financial strategies Skip and his team provide personalized services, offering retirement income planning, retirement tax strategies, life insurance and annuities, as well as legacy and estate planning. Located in The Villages Retirement Community in Sumter County, West Financial Group caters to the unique needs of its clientele
Skip's journey into financial planning began after obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering from the University of Arkansas in 1972 Recognizing his passion for financial planning, he transitioned into the field and has since dedicated several decades to helping clients achieve their financial goals. With a particular focus on retirees, Skip has developed a specialty in enabling them to enjoy their desired lifestyle during their golden years He has also authored publications related to his expertise.
As a skilled financial planner, Skip possesses a wide range of proficiencies in areas such as retirement planning, budgeting, taxes, legacy planning, and estate planning He guides clients in assessing their insurance needs, including life insurance, disability insurance, and long-term care insurance Notably, Skip's business approach emphasizes personalized service, tailoring individual programs based on each client's retirement aspirations, be it travel, volunteering, working part-time, or simply relaxing. He also assists retirees in managing tax liabilities and ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth to their heirs
In addition to his one-on-one client engagements, Skip West frequently conducts seminars and teleconferences on various financial topics These sessions cover subjects such as protecting against stock market risks, navigating increased taxation during retirement, ensuring guaranteed income for life, conquering the fear of uncertainty, optimizing leisure time, achieving a debt-free retirement, addressing retirement strategies for women, and avoiding the risk of outliving one's savings. These informative events are often offered free of charge.
Despite residing in a retirement community, Skip remains committed to expanding his knowledge and staying up-to-date with current events. He actively participates in continuing education events, staying informed about the latest developments in his field During the pandemic, he studied the CARES Act and provided valuable resources on annuities and related topics.
Born in Greenville, SC, and later relocating to Arkansas, Skip's childhood was influenced by his father's teaching of a mantra that shaped his success: "Always do more for others than they do for you, no matter what it takes." This mantra forms the foundation of his approach at West Financial, as he demonstrates empathy and provides personal support to his clients, especially during emotionally challenging times like estate planning
Skip West also believes in the importance of maintaining a sound mind and body, recognizing the responsibility that comes with these gifts. He upholds a disciplined approach and relies on faith to keep his mind and body fit and sharp.
Giving back to the community is a core value for Skip He is particularly passionate about improving financial literacy within his community, and his philanthropic efforts reflect this commitment He firmly believes that everyone should have a retirement income plan and actively works to assist individuals in developing one. Many of his seminars are provided free of charge, and he and West Financial Group offer a range of free resources and consultations related to retirement planning These resources can be accessed on the West Financial Group's website, as well as through Skip's personal Twitter and Facebook accounts.
Skip and West Financial Group have earned recognition for their exceptional services Clients appreciate Skip's personable nature, as he takes the time to understand their unique needs and provides excellent advice Events organized by Skip allow clients to socialize and connect with others who share similar interests, fostering a sense of community Clients feel valued and appreciated, and they trust Skip's sincere and knowledgeable approach to managing their accounts
Outside of his professional endeavors, Skip embodies the retirement lifestyle that he encourages his clients to embrace He enjoys activities such as running and golfing, which keep him active and engaged. Skip is happily married and has children and grandchildren, some of whom also reside in Florida, including an enthusiastic golfer among his granddaughters He and his wife currently reside in The Villages, a community that Skip wholeheartedly supports and promotes through his social media presence.
