With over two decades of expertise in investments and financial services, Stephen founded Curtain Wealth Planning, an independent financial planning, and registered investment advisory firm to help individuals and families across diverse backgrounds and income levels. Curtain Wealth Planning is based on his belief that everyone regardless of net worth, should be able to have access to independent and objective advice from an hourly, fee-only financial planner professional.

Stephen Lay is a member of the Garrett Planning Network. He adheres to the network’s standards, focusing on client-centered, fee-only services that prioritize the client’s best interests without the conflicts of interest associated with commissions or sales incentives. This affiliation serves as a testament to Stephen’s commitment to ethical, transparent, and client-centric financial planning practices.

Additionally, Stephen Lay is a fiduciary. This means that he is legally and ethically bound to act in the best interests of his clients. As a fiduciary, he is obligated to prioritize clients’ interests ahead of his own and to provide objective and unbiased advice. This standard is higher than the suitability standard that some financial professionals adhere to, requiring them only to make recommendations that are suitable for a client’s financial situation.