Our Story
At Coats Financial Planning, we've been guiding individuals, families, and trusts towards a more secure financial future for over two decades. Founded in Louisville, Kentucky, our Fee-Only firm is committed to providing objective, expert advice on a comprehensive basis. We take pride in our dedication to putting our clients' interests first, and we're proud to say that our team of five CFP professionals is comprised of some of the most qualified and experienced professionals in the industry.
Our Expertise
As pioneers in the Fee-Only financial planning space, we understand the importance of transparency and objectivity in our approach. Our certified financial planners have undergone rigorous training and have passed the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) exam, ensuring that our clients receive top-notch guidance and support. We serve clients across Kentucky, Indiana, Florida, and a dozen other states, and our staff is equipped to provide personalized financial planning and investment advice.
What Sets Us Apart
At Coats Financial Planning, we're committed to being more than just a financial planning firm. We take a holistic approach to our clients' financial well-being, combining expert guidance with deep, personal relationships. Our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and guidance, working collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their long-term financial goals.
Our Team
Our team consists of five CFP professionals, each with extensive experience in the financial planning and investment industry. Stuart Coats, our founder and president, brings over three decades of experience in finance and has undergone a peer review of his financial planning work, demonstrating his commitment to the highest ethical standards. Teri Christensen, a certified financial planner practitioner, shares the belief that financial planning isn't just for the wealthy, and is proud to serve clients from all walks of life. Elijah Essa, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professional, joined the firm in 2017 and is particularly inclined to advise young professionals. Tabitha Thomas, our financial planning associate, recently graduated from Western Kentucky University and holds a bachelor's degree in Mathematical Economics and a certificate in Personal Financial Planning.
Our Services
Our services are designed to provide comprehensive financial planning and investment guidance to individuals, families, and trusts. We offer a range of services, including:
- Financial planning and investment advice
- Retirement planning and estate management
- Investment management and portfolio analysis
- Tax planning and preparation
- Estate planning and probate administration
Our Affiliations
At Coats Financial Planning, we're proud to be affiliated with the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), a nationally-acclaimed organization dedicated to providing comprehensive Fee-Only financial planning with the highest level of ethical standards. We're also members of the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Board and the Financial Planning Association (FPA).

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