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Jim McCarthy, CFP®

Jim McCarthy, CFP®, ChFC®, is the owner of Directional Wealth Management, an independent financial planning and investment advisory firm in New Jersey. Jim advises families, professionals, executives, and business owners on how they can build better financial futures.

About Jim McCarthy, CFP®

Current Role

Owner, Directional Wealth Management

Expertise

  • Education Planning
  • Retirement Planning
  • Investment Management
  • Insurance Planning

Certifications & Degrees

  • Certified Financial Planner™
  • Chartered Financial Consultant
  • Bachelor's degree in finance and accounting from Pace University

Personal Finance Experience

Jim’s emphasis is on helping clients grow, protect and enjoy their wealth. His expertise includes education and retirement planning, in addition to investment management and insurance.

Since entering financial planning and investment management in 2003, Jim has compiled a long list of credentials. In addition to being a certified financial planner (CFP®), he is chartered financial consultant (ChFC®) and an active member of the Financial Planning Association. Jim is also a board member of two local nonprofit organizations.

Latest from Jim McCarthy, CFP®

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Security Deposit Loans: How They Work

You can use personal loans to satisfy the security deposit requirement on a new home or apartment, but this route has several disadvantages.

Should You Cosign a Student Loan? Pros and Cons

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How to Pay Off Student Loans Fast

Certain strategies such as paying more than the minimum payment, paying higher-interest loans down first, and getting student loan repayment assistance from your...

Federal vs. Private Student Loans: What’s the Difference?

Federal loans should be your first stop when looking for a student loan—they offer benefits...

How to Pay for College If You Don’t Qualify for Federal Financial Aid

Federal loans aren't the only option for covering college costs. Scholarships, grants, and private loans...

Best Physician Assistant Student Loans

Physician assistant student loans can help cover the costs of PA school. Both federal and private lenders offer PA school loans for eligible...

Pet Insurance for Multiple Pets

Many pet insurance plans offer discounts for insuring multiple pets. You’ll want to look at the total cost, as well as the age...

Best Adult Student Loans

Going to college can be expensive, but adult students have several financing options. Grants, scholarships, loans, and employer benefits can all help you...

Best No-Fee Personal Loans

It’s possible to find personal loans with no origination fee, especially if you have excellent credit. But watch out for higher interest rates...