A well planned strategy is a financial game changer. Learn how we can help you live a tax free retirement.
Our Philosophy
As a firm, our focus is to understand your goals and develop a plan to reach them. We will meet with you to present an analysis and discuss recommendations. Together, we implement your customized strategy and monitor your financial progress. From there, we will meet with you to assess the progress toward your goals and, when necessary, adjust your financial plan. Because there are many factors that may change in your situation or the environment, it’s of the utmost importance to us to be proactive and knowledgeable in the financial industry. We recognize that everyone's economic and life situation is unique. Using our process allows us to design a custom financial plan to fit you and your goals. We offer financial services in all areas of a well-built holistic plan, whether it be retirement planning, tax planning and preparation, estate planning, insurance, or long & short-term investments. We look to match you with the right financial products and services to achieve your goals and financial independence.
Meet James Stephenson- CEO, Tax and Wealth Advisor
Originally from DeRidder, Louisiana, James brings a lifelong passion for sports, the outdoors, and helping others plan for their future. After earning his degree in accounting from McNeese State University, he took on a unique opportunity to work overseas in Afghanistan, gaining invaluable life and professional experience.
Upon returning to the bayou state, James began his career as a tax and wealth advisor with a local financial firm. Over the years, he developed a deep expertise in tax preparation and long-term planning strategies. His commitment to excellence led him to complete the rigorous requirements to become a Certified Financial Planner™. He also holds a Series 65 license and actively participates in continuing education to stay current in the ever-evolving financial landscape.
Outside of the office, James enjoys training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and exploring new corners of the world through travel. Above all, James is a proud father to his son, who is his greatest joy and motivation. Leaving a strong legacy—both personally and professionally—is at the heart of everything he does.
Meet Kortney Burns - Office Manager & Medicare Specialist
Kortney Burns was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and is a proud graduate of McNeese State University. With a strong background in both finance and education, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families make informed decisions about their futures. Her move into the healthcare space was a natural extension of that mission. Now a certified and licensed Medicare agent, Kortney provides personalized, in-house support to the firm’s tax and financial clients—educating them on the ins and outs of Medicare with clarity and care.
Passionate about giving back, Kortney regularly participates in local outreach and community service projects. She loves traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family at their lake house on Toledo Bend. Of all her roles in life, being a mom to her daughter Sadie is by far the most meaningful and rewarding.
Stephenson Investment Group was built on providing investment management and strategic wealth planning to Lake Charles and the surrounding areas. Founder and CEO James Stephenson started Stephenson Investment Group because he wanted to offer unmatched customer service to his clients. As a financial advisor he saw firsthand how clients were lost in this confusing industry. He is passionate about helping clients and giving them the knowledge and confidence to make smart financial decisions. Now with his own firm he has the ability to help clients with all of their investment needs and is in the position to make positive effective change in people's future with no hidden agenda.
Simply put, Stephenson Investment Group strives to be a client’s trusted advisor. As an investment firm, our focus is to provide financial goal planning, extensive research on the products we recommend and unbiased opinions that are designed to attain long-term investment results. We achieve this with the highest levels of trust, integrity, and respect. We are dedicated to professionally supporting, educating, and providing informed direction to each client that comes through our door.
With our expert financial planning comes a decade-long tax practice that allows us to offer an unbeatable service to our clients. This sets us apart from many other firms that cannot offer up to date tax advice as an in-house service. We have the educational background and are committed to staying up-to-date with implications of tax, estate and social security laws in order to provide you with the best financial advice for your situation.
Retirement Planning
Investments
IRAs and Annuities
College Savings
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Roth Conversions
RMDs
Inherited IRAs
Medicare
Life Insurance
Estate Planning
Helping You Live a Tax-Free Retirement
A tax free future is possible. Contact us to learn more.
jstephenson@chfs.com
(337) 304-7761
1407 W. Prien Lake Rd.
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Our investment plans are designed to help minimize taxes on retirement income and even eliminate tax burdens all together.