Rafael Melendez, CFP®, CSLP

Financial Planner

 I am passionate about education and knowledge. It is my mission as a financial planner to help educate my clients on their financial options and be their trusted resource for all of life’s changes as they occur. Through open and collaborative conversations I hope to spark novel thinking and inspire habit change for all of my clients.

“Energy and persistence conquer all things.”

When I’m not working, you can find me with family and friends. My wife, Kane, and I have 2 cats and 2 dogs so there’s always plenty to do after work! We have a San Diego Zoo membership so we’re regularly visiting both parks. Babirusas and the platypuses are our favorites! I also enjoy riding my motorcycle up and down the I-5 around golden hour to catch the sun setting by the beach.

Credentials:
  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional
  • Certified Student Loan Professional®
  • Licensed as an Investment Adviser Representative (Series 65 – Uniform Investment Adviser Law Exam)
Areas of Expertise:
  • Goal planning
  • Student loan planning
  • Equity compensation (ISO/RSU/NQSO/ESPP/etc)
  • Tax planning
  • Planning for new families (marriage/children)
  • Young professionals
  • Cash flow planning
Education:
  • Bachelor of Science in Financial Services & Certificate in Personal Financial Planning from San Diego State University
  • Certified Student Loan Professional Program from The CSLA Institute
Membership:
  • Financial Planning Association (FPA)
  • The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA)
  • XY Planning Network (XYPN)
  • CSLP Board of Standards
Leadership:
  • Programs Committee, FPA – San Diego Chapter


Questions & Answers

Who inspires me:

My parents inspire me. They came to the United States at a very young age with little direction or help. Our family has overcome a lot of obstacles and it’s that sense of perseverance that motivates me to help others that feel lost.

Most effective savings tip:

Always pay yourself first! Think of savings as a bill and not a discretionary expense. By setting automatic transfers/deposits to your investment or savings accounts, you’ll begin making meaningful progress towards your goals.

Why I love what I do:

I love giving back. I’ve found that my life’s mission is to give back through the knowledge I’ve acquired in life. Helping families achieve their goals brings me the most joy.

My favorite podcast:

The Mindset Mentor & The Last Podcast On The Left

Schedule some time with Rafael:

GETTING STARTED IS EASY

Want to see if we're right for you?
Take the first step by scheduling an intro meeting

Isn’t it time you got the real financial planning advice you’ve always wanted? The first meeting is on us.
There’s no cost, no sales pressure, and no judgement - just a conversation to see if we’re a good match.