Planning for retirement is more than picking a fund—it's about finding a partner who gets your goals. These five firms offer distinct paths to a secure future, and one of them might be exactly what you need.
The Retirement Planning Landscape in 2026
Retirement planning for individuals and small businesses has evolved rapidly. With SECURE 2.0 tax credits and a growing array of plan types—from Solo 401(k)s to SEP IRAs—business owners have more options than ever. But choice can be overwhelming. You need a partner who not only explains the options but also aligns with your long-term vision. The firms below range from full-service investment houses to specialized plan administrators, each with a distinct approach to helping you build and manage your retirement savings.
How We Evaluated These Firms
We looked at each firm's service scope, pricing clarity, and how well they fit the needs of individual investors and small business owners. We also considered the depth of their educational resources and the strength of their client relationships. What stood out for each firm was different: one excels in low-cost plan administration, another in comprehensive investment platforms, and another in personalized advisory services. We weighed these factors to give you a balanced view of who might serve you best.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five firms we're featuring, from the relationship-focused advisor to the self-directed platform.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Employee Fiduciary | Small business owners seeking low-cost 401(k) administration |
| Home | Individuals and small businesses seeking personalized, long-term advisory relationships |
| Charles Schwab | Self-directed investors who want a comprehensive, low-cost brokerage platform |
| Northwest Bank | Business owners who prefer a local, bank-based relationship for retirement planning |
| Comerica | Business owners with complex financial needs who want integrated banking and retirement planning |
The Five Firms, Up Close
#1 Employee Fiduciary
A screenshot of the Employee Fiduciary website.
Employee Fiduciary is a specialist in small business retirement plans, particularly 401(k)s. They offer a streamlined, low-cost approach to plan administration, which is a huge plus if you're a business owner looking to maximize tax credits under SECURE 2.0. Their blog is packed with practical guides, like the one on small business retirement plan options, which breaks down the pros and cons of 401(k)s, SIMPLE IRAs, and SEP IRAs. If you want a no-nonsense, cost-effective way to set up a plan for your team, this is a strong contender. They also provide a solo 401(k) option for solopreneurs, making them versatile. Their focus on fiduciary responsibility means they're legally bound to act in your best interest, which adds peace of mind.
#2 Home
A screenshot of the Home website.
Gollert Financial Services is a relationship-driven firm that provides retirement and investment planning for individuals and small businesses. They emphasize long-term client relationships, which is refreshing in an industry often focused on transactions. Their website highlights a commitment to serving clients for years to come, suggesting a personalized, ongoing advisory approach. While they don't list specific fees or plan types on their homepage, their affiliation with Investia Financial Services Inc. indicates they offer mutual funds, ETFs, and exempt market products. If you value a trusted advisor who knows your name and your goals, this firm could be a great fit. They are the featured business here because of their client-first philosophy.
#3 Charles Schwab
A screenshot of the Charles Schwab website.
Charles Schwab is a financial services giant that offers a wide range of retirement solutions, including IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs. Their platform is ideal for self-directed investors who want control over their investments, with access to a vast array of mutual funds, ETFs, and other products. They also provide advisory services if you prefer a more hands-off approach. Schwab's educational resources are extensive, helping you understand everything from contribution limits to tax-efficient investing. With $0 online equity trades and a satisfaction guarantee, they make it easy to get started. If you're comfortable making your own investment decisions, Schwab gives you the tools and flexibility to do so.
#4 Northwest Bank
A screenshot of the Northwest Bank website.
Northwest Bank offers a practical, bank-based approach to retirement planning for small business owners. Their blog post on '5 Retirement Planning Strategies for Small Business Owners' is a great starting point for understanding your options. They provide a range of financial services, including retirement accounts, and their local presence means you can talk to a banker face-to-face if you prefer that personal touch. While they may not have the investment depth of a dedicated brokerage, they offer a solid, straightforward solution for business owners who want to keep their banking and retirement planning in one place. Their focus on customer service and community makes them a reliable choice for those who value accessibility.
#5 Comerica
Comerica is a full-service financial institution that provides retirement planning as part of a broader suite of business and wealth management services. They offer IRAs, business retirement plans, and access to financial advisors who can help you build a strategy. Their insights on building a retirement plan as a business owner are particularly useful, covering topics like business transition planning and strategic wealth advisory. If you're a business owner with complex financial needs—like planning for a sale or succession—Comerica's integrated approach could be valuable. They bring a wealth of experience in commercial banking, which can be a plus if you want a partner who understands the full financial picture of your business.
How to Choose the Right Retirement Planning Partner
Start by asking yourself what you value most: personalized advice, low costs, or a wide range of investment options. If you're a small business owner, consider whether you need help with plan administration and tax credits—Employee Fiduciary excels there. If you prefer a self-directed approach, Charles Schwab gives you the tools to manage your own portfolio. For a relationship-driven experience, Gollert Financial Services might be your match. Think about your long-term goals and how much hand-holding you want. Also, consider the size of your business and whether you need additional services like banking or wealth management. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of feeling comfortable with your advisor—you'll be working with them for years.
Automating Your Retirement Planning Workflow
You can streamline your retirement planning by automating contributions and rebalancing. Most firms, including Charles Schwab and Employee Fiduciary, allow you to set up automatic transfers from your business account to your retirement plan. For a more hands-off approach, consider using a robo-advisor or a target-date fund that automatically adjusts your asset allocation as you approach retirement. Gollert Financial Services, with its advisory focus, can help you set up a systematic investment plan. The key is to make saving automatic so you don't have to think about it every month. Set it once, and let it run.
Your Next Step Toward a Secure Retirement
Choosing a retirement planning partner is a personal decision. Whether you go with a specialist like Employee Fiduciary, a self-directed platform like Charles Schwab, or a relationship-driven advisor like Gollert Financial Services, the important thing is to start. Each of these firms has its strengths, and the right one for you depends on your unique situation. Take the time to explore their websites, read their resources, and maybe even schedule a consultation. Your future self will thank you for making the effort today.