Showing up with nothing is completely fine; the first meeting is a conversation, not an audit. But if you'd like to leave that meeting with real, specific answers instead of general ones, here's what helps. Bringing it doesn't mean you've signed up for anything.
Statements can be recent-ish — nothing needs to be perfect. We can also scan documents in the meeting, so a folder of paper works just as well as a tidy PDF.
Your most recent statements for 401(k)s, IRAs, brokerage accounts, HSAs — whatever you have, wherever it lives. Old-employer 401(k)s especially; they're the most commonly forgotten money in America.
The single most information-dense document you own. Two years is even better — it shows us where the tax opportunities and the leaks actually are.
Salary, bonus structure, self-employment income — however you're paid. If your income varies, a rough sense of a normal year and a big year.
RSU grants and vesting schedules, options, ESPP — the documents from your equity portal. This is where the biggest surprises (good and bad) tend to hide.
Your 401(k) match formula, HSA options, insurance through work. Free money you're not collecting shows up here more often than anywhere else.
Will, trust, powers of attorney — even if they're old. "We did those when the kids were born" is exactly the kind of thing worth a fresh look.
Mortgage statement, other loans, and anything large on the horizon — a home, a business, tuition, a family commitment.
Whatever's actually on your mind — the thing that made you reach out. That question usually matters more than any document on this list.
Everything you share is handled confidentially. Bringing documents does not obligate you to anything — the strategy session is complimentary either way.
Fast movers can bring the folder and leave with a plan taking shape. Deliberate movers can come with questions and take their time. Both are exactly right.