Kristen Vernace

CFP®, CDFA®

Pathways Financial PlanningAsbury Park, NJ 07712

My Approach

Financial planning isn't one-size-fits-all. I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the complex financial crossroads of life, focusing heavily on these unique groups and the major moments that define their journeys.

The Clients I Serve

Millennials & GenZ

Teachers & Educators

Pre-Retiree

Major Milestones I Specialize In

Career Changes or Job Loss

Divorce Planning

Retirement Planning

Our 7 Steps to Financial Planning

Certified Financial Planners have a proven blueprint for success—but your planner builds it entirely around you.

Summarized from the CFP® Board's Practice Standards. cfp.net

My Process

As a true fiduciary and fee-only CFP® and CDFA®, Kristen provides unbiased, comprehensive financial planning with expertise in budgeting, retirement planning, investment strategies, tax planning, and major life transitions, including divorce. She works with clients virtually nationwide and in-person in New Hampshire and New Jersey. Her background in education - teaching middle school English in San Francisco and Maine - gives her a unique perspective on guiding career changers through financial transitions. Her passion lies in helping others make complicated financial decisions including whether to sell company stock, when to retire, and how to handle competing priorities such as funding kids' education, paying off debt, and saving for the future. She offers hourly financial advice for those seeking one-time guidance or a cost-effective option, divorce planning for clients managing the financial complexities of separation, and ongoing financial planning for those who want continuous support in achieving their goals. Whether you're planning for retirement, building wealth, or facing complex financial decisions, Kristen provides knowledgeable, compassionate guidance to help you create a plan that aligns with your goals and values.

Disclosures

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. It is not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell any security, insurance product, or investment strategy. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Tax and legal matters are outside the scope of this engagement; consult your attorney, accountant, and other qualified professionals before making financial decisions. Additional information about this financial professional, including registration status and disciplinary history, is available through FINRA BrokerCheck and the SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website.

FINRA BrokerCheck SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure

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Financial Planner Certifications

Securities Registrations or Exam Qualifications

Series 65

Designations & Certifications

CFP®

Technical Skills

Tax Planning

Retirement Income and Distribution

Cash Flow and Debt Optimization

Compensation

Compensation Methods

Fee Only

Fee-only means a CFP® professional may describe his or her practice as "fee-only" if, and only if, all the planner's compensation from all client work comes exclusively from clients in the form of fixed, flat, hourly, percentage, or performance-based fees.

Hourly: Pay a fixed rate only for the time spent on your plan. Great if you have a few specific questions or need occasional advice on a flexible basis.
Project-Based: A one-time flat fee for a specific project—like a single topic or a complete financial plan. Ideal if you just need advice right now without an ongoing commitment.
Subscription: A predictable, recurring fee (monthly or annually) for continuous advice. Perfect if you want ongoing guidance with a clear, fixed cost known upfront.