1. What is a ROBS arrangement?

   Rollovers for Business Startups (ROBS), which we refer to here at Guidant as iFinance, are arrangements that allow individuals to invest in a new business or franchise without seeking a loan, paying penalties or taking a taxable distribution. Essentially, ROBS utilize money that candidates often don’t realize they can use to fund their venture.
   
   BTW—we never liked that acronym, which is why we hope our term iFinance becomes the new industry standard!

2. How can you help me help my candidates get comfortable with the idea of using their 401(k) funds to start their business?

   Because Guidant has helped almost 7000 individuals understand their financial options when starting a business, we know the fear and/or concern that comes with this major decision. Our thoughtful and experienced consultants will guide your candidates through the process, paying close attention to the specific details—carefully explaining each step of the way. During this process, we stay in regular contact with you through automated email updates and personal calls by your Business Development manager.

3. Why work with Guidant Financial?

   Industry standards and statistics aside, helping individuals get started on the right path to the American Dream is as important to Guidant as it is to you. Doing it without accumulating a lot of debt reaches to the core of why we exist.

   Size. With nearly 70 employees dedicated to providing a seamless customer service experience and quickly funded transactions, we offer the largest staff in this specialized industry. Our core competency lies in the expertise of our team, which includes a former ERISA auditor for the U.S. Department of Labor and an in-house attorney who holds an LLM in taxation.
   
   Experience. We’ve helped nearly 7,000 aspiring entrepreneurs successfully start businesses or franchises using their retirement funds. And we’re especially proud that our clients have invested over $2 billion into their businesses, creating over 40,000 new jobs.

   Speed. 92% of our deals are funded in 21 days or less, which means our clients can begin living their dream in less than a month.

   Client Success. According to Dunn & Bradstreet numbers, entrepreneurs who used ROBS to start their new business are 63% more likely to succeed than those who use traditional financing.

   Track Record. We’ve helped rollover more than 2 billion dollars in assets for our clients—and have a spotless compliance track record to show for it.

   Safety. We offer absolute plan protection for all of our clients. In the event their 401(k) Plan is audited, Guidant will pay for 100% of the representation costs (complete terms can be found in Schedule C of the client’s Pension Recordkeeping Agreement). 

4. Do you have a partner program, and if so, how do I register?

   Absolutely! We employ an expert team of industry leaders in financing, franchise trends and success building who would love to support you and your clients. To learn more, contact the Business Development team at 888.472.4455 x 3331.

5. Who should I refer to Guidant Financial?

   You should refer individuals who have at least $40,000 in roll-able, qualified (pre-tax) retirement funds, and are hoping to invest in a business or franchise.

6. How do I refer clients to Guidant Financial?

   Click here to complete a brief form, or call our Business Development team at 888.472.4455 x 3331. They’ll be happy to help you get the ball rolling.

7. Will you update me on my client’s progress?

   Of course! During each step of the process, we frequently connect with you and your candidate via telephone, email and our proprietary contact management system.

8. What are your fees for those services?

   There is a one-time, all-inclusive set up fee of $4995. This covers the entire cost to complete the transaction, including all federal filing fees. Since these transactions are closely monitored by the IRS, Guidant provides ongoing recordkeeping and compliance services on the candidate’s behalf for $119 per month.

“Guidant runs a professional organization. They are very detailed, thorough, and responsive. They keep me informed about what’s going on with my clients. I recommend them to my colleagues all the time.”
- Jeff Levy, Franchise Consultant, The Entrepreneur Source