First Command Financial Advisor - Kim Schwinler

Jeff Merchant joined First Command Financial Services as a Financial Advisor in July 2017, following a 32-year career in the United States Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of Colonel. Jeff understands the challenges and opportunities associated with life in the military and is committed to helping service members and their families get their financial lives squared away. Jeff has a Master’s degree in National Security from the Naval War College and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of South Dakota. He holds Series 7 & 66 securities licenses plus life and health insurance licenses in multiple states. Understanding that the biggest obstacle to financial security for most people is their own behavior, Jeff serves as a personal financial coach to clients, continually reinforcing positive financial behaviors. His thorough knowledge of military pay and benefits enables him to advise clients on how to navigate the Blended Retirement System, properly allocate their contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and take full advantage of other benefits. Jeff will work with you to establish specific, meaningful goals that are consistent with your values and then develop a personalized financial plan to guide your pursuit of those goals. Active in his community, Jeff is a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America. In his free time, Jeff enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and working on cars. First Command Financial Services was founded in 1958 by a retired Air Force officer for the specific purpose of improving the financial well-being of military professionals and their families. Today, more than 500 First Command Financial Advisors across the country and abroad, many of whom also served, are committed to the company’s Mission of “Coaching those who serve in their pursuit of financial security.”

First Command's Financial Advisors in Rapid, SD are committed to serving our Nation's military families in their pursuit of financial security. Keeping you financially squared away wherever life takes you.

With customized advice and guidance, we help you build a financial strategy targeted toward achieving your financial goals. You can depend on our investment management experience to help you develop strategies and solutions for pursuing financial security, no matter where you are in life.