I’ve been working with high-income professionals for over a decade, as a certified public accountant and certified financial planner. During my time working with wealthy clients, one thing has become clear: they don’t achieve success alone.
Behind every wealthy client is a trusted team — experts they rely on to make sound decisions and stay ahead. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
In my experience, all of my wealthy clients have five key relationships.
1. Trusted financial advisor
As wealth grows, so does financial complexity. That’s why it is crucial to work with an advisor who offers comprehensive services and acts in your best interest—a fiduciary.
One of the most important areas where my wealthy clients seek help is with their finances. By working with a financial advisor, they ensure they have a comprehensive financial plan that supports continued wealth building, protects their assets, and enables them to share their wealth meaningfully.
Delegating this responsibility frees up their time and energy to focus on income-generating activities, like running a business or managing investment properties.
2. Skilled CPA
As soon as your financial life becomes more complex, it’s time to bring in a CPA.
Taxes are rarely anyone’s favorite subject, and as income and assets grow, so does the complexity. Most of my clients have built wealth through business ownership, real estate, or investments — all of which come with significant tax and accounting challenges.
Every wealthy individual I’ve worked with has had a strong CPA on their team, not just for tax compliance, but to proactively plan for the future. Don’t wait until tax season to realize you need one. Whether it’s bookkeeping, payroll, or advanced tax planning, a knowledgeable CPA helps ensure everything is done accurately and strategically.
3. Team of attorneys
Many high-net-worth individuals face legal challenges at some point, whether it’s from a disgruntled employee, an unhappy customer, or complex business dealings.
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To safeguard their assets, wealthy clients often have a team of attorneys covering areas like business law, estate planning, and family matters. They’ve worked too hard to build their wealth to risk losing it over avoidable legal issues. Legal protection isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s about proactively shielding your assets from potential threats.
Even if you’re not yet wealthy, it’s wise to begin implementing legal protections early. Asset protection isn’t just for the ultra-rich — it’s a critical part of building lasting wealth.
4. Life coach
Wealthy individuals often lead complex and demanding lives—running businesses, managing investments, or frequently traveling. With so much happening, it can be difficult to stay centered, grounded, and emotionally balanced.
That’s where a life coach becomes invaluable. Life coaches support their clients in improving overall well-being, finding clarity, and aligning their personal and professional goals.
Whether it’s navigating life transitions, managing stress, or seeking greater fulfillment, a life coach helps high-achieving individuals live with intention and purpose.
5. Mentor and mentee
Most wealthy individuals have trusted advisors in their corner — people they can count on for strategic advice and direction. Just as important, many of these individuals also give back by mentoring others.
As they climb the ladder of success, they recognize the importance of investing in the next generation, understanding they didn’t get to where they are alone. Mentorship becomes a way to carry the torch and uplift others on their journey.
Jovan Johnson, CPA and CFP, is the co-owner of Piece of Wealth Planning and specializes in strategic tax planning, personal financial planning, and small business accounting.
