Illuminate Wealth Management
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Illuminate Wealth Management Logo
Ben Hockema, CFP®, Founder

Ben Hockema, CFP®

Founder, Illuminate Wealth Management

Barrington, Illinois

Ben works with clients seeking thoughtful guidance around retirement, business ownership, equity compensation, and other complex financial decisions. He is particularly passionate about helping clients simplify financial complexity and gain confidence in the decisions that shape their future.

Frequently Asked to Help With

  • Equity Compensation
  • Business Ownership
  • Retirement Readiness
  • Tax-Aware Planning
  • Alternative & Private Investments
  • Advanced Wealth Planning

Credentials & Experience

CFP® Professional

13+ Years Experience

Fee-Only Fiduciary

Founder, Illuminate Wealth Management

A complimentary introductory call to discuss your goals, questions, and priorities.

 

Recent Insights from Ben

Why Beating the Market Isn't Always the Right Goal

Ben Hockema challenges the idea that market returns are the best measure of investment success and explains why personal financial goals often matter more.
 
 

 

How Financial Advice Evolved and Where It's Heading Next

Ben Hockema explores the evolution of financial advice, from stockbrokers and commissioned sales to modern planning firms, and shares his thoughts on how AI may reshape the industry.
 

 

The Equity Compensation Mistakes That Cost People the Most

Drawing from real client experiences, Ben Hockema explains the most common mistakes he sees with RSUs, stock options, taxes, and concentrated stock positions, and how proactive planning can help avoid them.
 

Outside the Office

When not running Illuminate and serving clients, Ben spends his time with his wife and three kids, cooking new recipes, and trying to get better at golf. He can usually be found exploring new podcasts or books and is always excited to share what he’s learning about.

Friends, family, and clients alike know that Ben genuinely enjoys learning. Whether the topic is investing, business, leadership, history, or personal development, he’s constantly looking for new ideas and perspectives. That curiosity often shows up in the planning process, helping clients think through challenges, ask better questions, and make more informed decisions.

 

Ben Hockema, CFP®, Founder

Let's Talk About What's On Your Mind.

Whether you’re approaching retirement, navigating a business transition, evaluating equity compensation, or simply looking for a second opinion, Ben would be happy to learn more about your situation.

Schedule Time With Ben >