Korinne Sugasawara, AFC®
Your Financial Journey Is Unique—Be Empowered Through Life Changes, and Celebrated for Your Resilience.
Challenges I Can Help You Overcome
Managing your money can feel overwhelming, especially when you're making big decisions or carving out a new life path. I’m here to help you cut through the noise, gain clarity on your goals, and create a plan that aligns with your values and aspirations—not just what you’ve heard you "should" do. I specialize in supporting:
• Those Facing Life Transitions: Whether you're navigating a career change, starting a small business, going through a divorce, caregiving for aging parents, or planning for retirement (including early retirement), I’ll help you move past analysis paralysis and make confident, informed decisions.
• Members of Resilient Communities: If you’re part of the LGBTQIA2S+, neurodivergent, disabled, kink, or poly communities, you deserve financial guidance that is affirming, judgment-free, and tailored to your unique needs. Many social systems weren’t built with us in mind, and I’ll work creatively with you to navigate these challenges and thrive.
• First-Generation Wealth Builders: Being the first in your family to finish college or earn good money can bring unique challenges, from navigating outdated money beliefs to balancing family obligations with your own needs. I’ll help you create a financial plan that supports your loved ones, sets healthy boundaries, and builds a sustainable path toward wealth—because family financial security is a team effort.
• Public Sector Employees Seeking Financial Independence: You don’t need a six-figure salary to become work optional—you need a plan. If you’re a community change-maker, I’ll help you maximize your workplace benefits, prioritize your goals, and create a strategy to achieve financial independence so you can continue doing meaningful work without the financial stress.
My goal is to provide the clarity, guidance, and support you need to overcome challenges and confidently move forward on your financial journey.
Services Offered
I am a fee-only financial planner with no investment minimums, and investment management is an optional add-on. In other words, you don't have to be a millionaire to work with me, and fellow DIYers are welcome.
All clients start with a one-time comprehensive financial plan for a fixed fee. Over a period of two to three months we will review and analyze your finances and alignment with life goals, with actionable next steps.
Afterwards, clients may opt for ongoing support and accountability, allowing us to adapt together as life evolves and priorities change.
About Me
The first time I met with a financial advisor, I was a young educator curious about saving for retirement—but I was turned away for not having enough money. I started reading all the personal finance books I could find, and learning through trial and error.
At the same time, I saw in the classroom how systemic issues impacted my students and their families' financial stability. A desire to make a difference led to a career change into public policy, working on legislation in both Washington D.C. and California.
Throughout my public service career, I shared my growing knowledge of personal finance—specializing in state pension legislation for the California State Senate, demystifying employee benefits for colleagues, and helping friends navigate complex life decisions with big financial implications. A conversation with a financial planner who recognized my enthusiasm inspired me to turn my passion into a profession.
Now, as an Accredited Financial Counselor® and a Candidate for CFP® certification, I help clients nationwide from my home base in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering guidance that blends empathy, lived experience, and a commitment to aligning your finances with life goals.
contact Korinne.
korinne@corepln.com