• Link to LinkedIn
  • Link to Facebook
  • (512)-334-6200
  • Client Login
  • Request A Quote
Physician’s Resource Services
  • Services
    • Insurance
      • Disability Insurance
      • Life Insurance
      • Business Overhead Insurance
      • Long-Term Care Insurance
    • Tax
      • Tax Preparation
      • Tax Planning
      • Business Formation
    • Financial Planning
      • Retirement Planning
      • Debt Management
      • Student Loans
      • Estate Planning
      • Succession Planning
    • Investment Management
      • Goal Planning
      • Allocation Analysis
      • Ongoing Analysis
  • Who We Help
    • GME Programs
    • Residents & Fellows
    • Practicing Physicians
  • Resources
    • Physician Wellness
    • Defining DI
    • Request A Quote
    • Patient Physician Podcast
  • About Us
    • Meet The Team
    • Partners
    • Careers
    • News & Articles
    • Contact
  • Schedule Consult
  • Menu Menu

The Do‘s and Don’ts of Physician Finances: Financial Planning Tips for Doctors

Building a successful medical career is no small feat. You’ve spent years buried in textbooks, pulling all-nighters during residency, and pushing yourself to excel in a high-pressure environment. But for all the dedication you pour into patient care, there’s one critical aspect of your life that often gets sidelined: financial planning.

Between staggering student loan debt, delayed earning potential, and a relentless work schedule, doctors face financial hurdles most people can’t even imagine. And the truth is, without a solid plan in place, your hard-earned income can slip away just as quickly as it comes.

The good news? Implementing smart financial planning tips early on can set the stage for lasting financial health. Whether you’re a resident laying the groundwork for your future or a seasoned physician looking to fine-tune your wealth-building strategies, this guide covers the essential do’s and don’ts of financial planning for doctors. Let’s dive in and make sure your financial health is just as strong as the care you provide your patients.

When it comes to financial planning for doctors, being proactive is the name of the game. From early investing to budgeting, the right strategies can create a foundation of financial stability and long-term growth. Here are a few key tips.

Start Early

If there’s one financial planning tip every doctor should take to heart, it’s this: Start early. The earlier you begin saving and investing, the more time you have to benefit from compound interest—where your returns generate even more returns.

Starting early also allows you to build good financial habits that will serve you well throughout your career. Even if you’re still in residency and feeling the pinch of modest income, setting aside even small amounts can make a significant difference over time. Automating contributions to retirement accounts and savings plans is a straightforward way to stay on track.

Diversify Investments

Investing wisely is about more than just picking a few stocks and hoping for the best. It’s about building a diversified portfolio that mitigates risk and enhances growth. As a physician, you’re likely to have a high earning potential, which makes it all the more important to protect and grow your wealth.

Physician’s Resource Services can help you determine your options for diversifying your portfolio so you can make informed investment decisions.

Learn More

Budgeting and Cash Flow Management

Regardless of your income level, effective budgeting is crucial for living within your means. Cash flow management is especially important during residency and early career stages when financial responsibilities often outweigh earnings.

Creating a budget helps you track where your money is going and ensures you’re prioritizing savings, investments, and essential expenses. It’s also a useful tool for identifying areas where you can cut back and allocate funds more effectively. Tools like budgeting apps or financial advisors can provide valuable insights and keep you accountable.

Seek Professional Advice

Navigating financial planning for doctors can be complicated. From managing debt to optimizing investments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where working with a knowledgeable financial advisor becomes invaluable.

The right advisor understands the unique financial landscape physicians face. They can guide you through everything from tax planning and insurance coverage to retirement strategies and investment management. Partnering with a professional early on can help you make well-informed decisions that align with your financial goals. 

Building a solid financial future requires more than just good intentions—it takes strategy. Learn more about PRS’s financial planning services designed specifically for physicians.

Our Planning Services

Just as there are helpful financial planning tips you should embrace, there are also pitfalls you’ll want to avoid. Poor financial decisions can undermine your hard work and leave you struggling to catch up. Here’s what to steer clear of.

Avoid High-Interest Debt

High-interest debt is the financial equivalent of quicksand—it pulls you down fast and is difficult to escape. Physicians, particularly those early in their careers, often face significant debt from medical school loans. Adding high-interest credit card debt or personal loans to the mix can make financial stability feel unattainable.

Avoid relying on credit cards for day-to-day expenses, and if you already have high-interest debt, prioritize paying it down aggressively. Debt consolidation or refinancing can also be useful tools for managing your liabilities.

Prevent Lifestyle Inflation

As your income grows, it’s natural to want to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But falling victim to lifestyle inflation—increasing your spending in proportion to your earnings—can quickly derail your financial progress.

Maintaining financial discipline is essential. Rather than allowing expenses to creep up with each pay increase, focus on building wealth by increasing contributions to savings and investment accounts. Setting clear financial goals can help you stay motivated and avoid lifestyle traps.

Neglecting Insurance Coverage

Physicians often overlook the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage. From disability insurance to life insurance, neglecting these protective measures can have disastrous financial consequences.

Insurance acts as a safety net that ensures your family’s financial stability even if you’re unable to work or unexpectedly pass away. For physicians, securing tailored coverage that fits your specific needs is essential to a solid financial plan.

Common Financial Mistakes to Avoid

Some financial mistakes are common among physicians, often due to a lack of professional guidance or simply being too busy to prioritize personal finances. Here’s what to watch out for.

Lack of Emergency Funds

No matter how high your earning potential, having a reliable emergency fund is non-negotiable. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected expenses can arise at any time.

A general rule of thumb is to keep at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a liquid, accessible account. This cushion will provide peace of mind and prevent financial disruption in times of crisis.

Inadequate Retirement Planning

Doctors often delay retirement planning due to extended schooling and residency. However, the sooner you start, the better off you’ll be. Even if your contributions are small during residency, making consistent deposits into a retirement account can yield significant growth over time.

Taking advantage of employer-sponsored plans, IRAs, and other retirement tools ensures your long-term financial security.

Overlooking Tax Planning

Effective tax planning can make a substantial difference in your financial bottom line. Strategic planning is essential for everything from maximizing deductions to utilizing tax-advantaged investment accounts.

Many physicians miss out on opportunities to optimize their tax situation simply because they lack the time or knowledge to do so. Consulting with a financial advisor who understands the intricacies of physician taxes can result in significant savings.

Plan for Your Financial Future With PRS

Smart financial planning starts with understanding what works and what doesn’t. By adopting best practices, avoiding common pitfalls, and partnering with knowledgeable advisors, you can set yourself up for lasting success.

Financial planning tips tailored to your needs can make all the difference. Contact PRS today to start building toward a stable and prosperous financial future.

Share This Post

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on X
  • Share on WhatsApp
  • Share on Pinterest
  • Share on LinkedIn
  • Share on Tumblr
  • Share on Vk
  • Share on Reddit
  • Share by Mail

More Like This

Male doctor sitting at table and writing on a document report in hospital office

Wealth Management for Doctors: Mistakes to Avoid and How to Build a Stronger Financial Future

Financial Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Male-doctor-sitting-at-table-and-writing-on-a-document-report-in-hospital-office.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2025-07-02 09:00:002025-07-14 15:34:22Wealth Management for Doctors: Mistakes to Avoid and How to Build a Stronger Financial Future
businessman shaking hands with doctor in modern office

How to Plan for Retirement Taxes as a Physician

Retirement Planning, Taxes
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/businessman-shaking-hands-with-doctor-in-modern-office.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2025-04-09 09:46:412025-07-14 15:34:24How to Plan for Retirement Taxes as a Physician
Financial professional helping client

Do You Need a Specialized CPA for Doctors?

Financial Planning, Taxes
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Financial-professional-helping-client.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2025-01-14 11:37:422025-07-14 15:34:25Do You Need a Specialized CPA for Doctors?
Your Guide to Estate Planning for Doctors

Your Guide to Estate Planning for Doctors

Estate Planning, Financial Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Your-Guide-to-Estate-Planning-for-Doctors.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-12-19 09:05:302025-07-14 15:34:25Your Guide to Estate Planning for Doctors
Front view of young female doctor smiling at clipboard

Understanding Wealth Management as a Doctor for Different Stages of Your Career 

Financial Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Front-view-of-young-female-doctor-smiling-at-clipboard.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-12-04 08:19:302025-07-14 15:34:26Understanding Wealth Management as a Doctor for Different Stages of Your Career 
Young person calculating loans

Balancing Retirement Savings and Student Loan Repayment as a New Physician

Financial Planning, Retirement Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Young-person-calculating-loans.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-11-27 15:47:122025-07-14 15:34:26Balancing Retirement Savings and Student Loan Repayment as a New Physician
Smiling male doctor talking to his patient

The Importance of Diversifying Physician Wealth Management—And How to Do It

Financial Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Smiling-male-doctor-talking-to-his-patient.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-11-22 13:09:572025-07-14 15:34:27The Importance of Diversifying Physician Wealth Management—And How to Do It
two people looking at retirement planning

Retirement Planning for Doctors: How to Adjust Your Plan When Transitioning from Residency to Practice

Financial Planning, Retirement Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/two-people-looking-at-retirement-planning.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-10-31 13:32:522025-07-14 15:34:27Retirement Planning for Doctors: How to Adjust Your Plan When Transitioning from Residency to Practice

Why You Should Max out Your Retirement Plan Before Year-End

Financial Planning, Retirement Planning
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Maxing-Out-Retirement-Plans-Before-Year-End.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-10-01 15:43:332025-07-14 15:34:27Why You Should Max out Your Retirement Plan Before Year-End
Previous Previous Previous Next Next Next

Categories

  • Disability Insurance
  • Estate Planning
  • Financial Planning
  • Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • News
  • Onboarding
  • Physician Resources
  • Retirement Planning
  • Taxes
  • Uncategorized

Contact Us

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

“You dedicate your life to helping patients with their physical health; Let us help you with your financial health.”

Our Services

Insurance

Tax Service

Financial Planning

Investment Management

Who We Help

Locations

AUSTIN – (512)-334-6200
6500 River Place Blvd, Bldg 7, Suite 250 Austin, TX 78730

FORT WORTH
John Peter Smith Hospital 1500 South Main St. Room 02-0181 Fort Worth, TX 76104

GALVESTON
Rebecca Sealy Building 404 St Mary’s Blvd Suite 5.408 Galveston, TX 77550

 
 
This site may contain links to articles or other information that may be on a third-party website. Advisory Services Network, LLC is not responsible for and does not control, adopt, or endorse any content contained on any third-party website.

Advisory services offered through PRS Investment Advisors, a Member of Advisory Services Network, LLC. Tax services and insurance products offered through Physician’s Resource Services. Advisory Services Network, LLC and Physician’s Resource Services are not affiliated.

Website by Abstrakt Marketing Group © 2022
  • Privacy Policy
  • Sitemap
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top
  • Book a Meeting

Robin Bales – AGENT

Robin has owned a Commercial Leasing Company providing financing to doctors and other operators for their equipment beginning in 2007. After the global crash of 2008, she went to work for NYL and spent 3 years there working with other entrepreneurs securing their retirement future and safeguarding their personal asset risks. Robin opened her own agency in 2017 Legacy by Design and has run a national firm coast to coast with 50-70 agents. Today the agency is much smaller serving 5 agents who share the same vision and passion for our clients focusing on health insurance, Medicare, and annuities.

Robin is most connected to ethos of PRS mission to improve the lives of doctors and their families. Supporting those who run the leading infrastructure of our country.

Robin has been married for 22 years to her husband Steven. Together they have 3 girls and have built a family with strong values and commitment to each others successes. Robin’s family are home bodies by nature and enjoy their 3 dogs hanging in living room or kitchen.

Karli Allen – HEAD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Karli is a graduate of The Master’s University in Santa Clarita, CA, and has a business degree with emphases in accounting, finance, and management. Karli has been in the financial services industry since 2014 and joined the PRS team in 2018.

Karli oversees investment and financial planning operations and assists with the onboarding and service of the firm’s advisory clients.  Karli was a key part of our firm’s custodial transition to Fidelity in 2019 as part of our decision to become an independent investment advisory firm.  Before joining PRS, Karli worked in personal financial planning in Orange County, California.  She also holds a FINRA Series 65 license. Karli is grateful to be a part of such an amazing team.

Outside of work, Karli enjoys traveling, playing golf, and spending time with her husband and their goldendoodle.

Gabriela Chavez – ANALYST

At Physicians Resource Service Gabby plays a pivotal role in Paul’s advisory team, staying in close contact with clients, driving business development, and lending a hand in daily operational tasks. Additionally, she collaborates with CPA Erin Anderson to prepare tax returns, conduct withholding reviews and undertake various tasks across the division.

Gabby is currently double-majoring in accounting and finance at the University of the Incarnate World in San Antonio, and she plans to sit for her Certified Financial Planning exam in the fall of 2022. Before transferring to UIW, she attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, Texas. Gabby was born in Germany and is Mexican American. She loves to travel and has visited 11 different countries. She has a five-year-old pug named Penny.

Chris Fullbright – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Chris brings experience in financial services and the perspective of a successful entrepreneur who has launched several businesses. With over a decade in the industry, he has served as both an advisor and in a management role coaching new advisors. Chris attended the University of Georgia and Texas State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences.

He currently holds many financial services licenses and designations including FINRA Group One, Series 6, Series 63, Series 65, Series 7, ARPC, and Certification in Long Term Care (CLTC). In his free time he enjoys being involved in the local community through organizations such as Comfort Crew for Military Kids. Chris is also an active member of Austin Christian Fellowship Church, and enjoys spending time there as well as reading, fishing, and going to sporting events. He is happily married to Monique with two wonderful sons. In addition to serving physicians, Chris specializes in working with special needs families.

Kevin Burris – PARAPLANNER

Kevin received his BA and MBA from Indiana University, earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the University of Georgia, and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation from the American College. Kevin is looking forward to helping physicians live their best life. Kevin enjoys spending time on the lake with his wife, playing golf, and watching Indiana University sports.

Michael Kohles – AGENT

Michael attended Lake Michigan College and Siena Heights University, graduating magna cum lade with a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a major in Finance and minor in Marketing. Michael has been in the financial services industry since 2015 and has experience with multiple insurance verticals. Michael is excited to help physicians achieve their financial goals by providing insurance solutions. Michael is married to Erin and has 4 children. Michael also enjoys reading, golfing, playing poker, learning, and traveling.

Erin Kohles – UNDERWRITING PROCESSOR

Erin supports our advisors and clients during the insurance underwriting process in multiple ways. On a given day, she helps by processing applications, tracking and following up on open cases, and answering client questions. She appreciates the part she plays in helping clients prepare for the future, and she strives to make the process as simple and efficient as possible.

Erin has been in the insurance industry for two years and brings with her six and eight years of experience in accounting and quality control, respectively. She graduated from Ball State University and has her life & health and property & casualty insurance licenses. In her free time, she enjoys cheering on her two boys who play basketball, soccer, and baseball; traveling with her husband; and playing with their Yorkie, Mingo.

Erin Anderson – CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

As a certified public accountant, Erin is a valuable part of our tax division at PRS. She enjoys working with our advisors to develop tax-efficient strategies, and she strives to provide clarity for every client she serves. Erin started her career as an accountant after graduating from Oklahoma State University in 2012 with a master’s degree. She earned her CPA license in 2018. Erin and her husband have two little boys, and they love spending time outdoors as a family and watching OSU football.

Alex Simmons – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Alex oversees Business Development at Physician’s Resource Services. She works with each department to assist in continually improving PRS so we remain a leading competitor in the industry. Alex graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Energy Commerce. She is a Texas native who loves to spend her free time traveling and taking her pup, Teddi, to the dog park.

Jennifer Khan- UNDERWRITING SPECIALIST

Jennifer is an Underwriting Specialist at Physician’s Resource Services, with an extensive background in customer service and administration. Jennifer grew up in Texas, graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a BFA in Theatre, and spent six years in Chicago performing sketch and improv. She is a graduate of the Conservatory Program at The Second City and iO Chicago. Jennifer and her husband, Qamar, moved to Texas with their dachshund mix, Dobby, to be closer to family, sunshine, and good BBQ.

Cheryl Breeden – OFFICE MANAGER

Cheryl is the Business Manager for the firm and a licensed service assistant. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She has years of experience in the areas of process management, customer service, benefits, and insurance. Cheryl has three girls — Ashley, Hannah, & Olivia. She brings this experience to our firm where she manages the underwriting and service process. She also manages the business operations for the firm.

John C. Jackson IV – ASSOCIATE FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

John is an agent from Austin, TX, a graduate of Westlake High School and The University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a Minor in Business Administration. While at UT, John was a 2-Time Captain and 4-Time All-Conference performer for the men’s lacrosse team. While away from the office, John coaches with the Westlake Youth Lacrosse program and volunteers with Austin’s Young Men’s Business League, and Austin Sunshine Camps.

Paul Smith, CFP® ChFC® MSFS – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Paul has helped his clients in financial, business, and estate planning for over 10 years. Paul is a graduate of Texas State University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He has also completed the extensive studies necessary to earn the Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designations. Paul is actively involved in the community through his volunteer work and service on Community Action Board for the Helping Hand Home for Children. Paul is married to Heather and they have two children, Nyla and Hazel.

Richard Cunningham – MANAGING DIRECTOR

For 30 years, Richard has been helping clients reach their financial goals with sincerity and integrity. He works with GME program administrators, individual physicians and their families to help doctors achieve financial security. Richard is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. He studied in Paris at the Sorbonne. Richard supports numerous charitable organizations, is actively involved in Austin Recovery, and he participates in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society as a survivor of CML. Richard is married to Adrienne with two children, Raven and Coates.