Matthew Donaghue

Matt Donaghue, CFP®, CLU, CLTC, AIF®, AIFA®, PPC®, NSSA®, RICP® Founder & Managing Member | Financial Planner | Retirement & Tax Strategist I’m Matt Donaghue, and I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals, families, and business owners gain financial security and peace of mind.

During the depths of COVID, I took my passion for helping people and founded Mission Financial Planners, a firm built on the principles of holistic financial planning, fiduciary responsibility, and personalized client service. Today, my team and I serve clients in 38 states, focusing on retirement income strategies, tax-efficient planning, business succession, and risk management. I hold multiple industry-leading credentials, including CFP® (Certified Financial Planner™), CLU® (Chartered Life Underwriter), CLTC® (Certified in Long-Term Care), AIF® (Accredited Investment Fiduciary), AIFA® (Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst), PPC® (Professional Plan Consultant), NSSA® (National Social Security Advisor), and RICP® (Retirement Income Certified Professional). These certifications allow me to provide comprehensive financial guidance that balances investment growth, tax efficiency, and long-term security. My Journey: From Military Service to Financial Planning I grew up in a small community on the plains of Minnesota, where I learned the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience. Seeking a greater purpose, I joined the Army and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom II, an experience that shaped my ability to strategically plan, adapt to uncertainty, and lead others through complex decisions. After my military service, I transitioned into the financial industry, living in Texas while working for a multinational insurance company, where I gained a deep understanding of insurance planning and risk management. Later, I moved to New Jersey to work on Wall Street, where I focused on investment strategies and wealth preservation. Over the years, I also spent time coaching advisors and working with the public, ensuring that both professionals and everyday investors had the tools to make informed financial decisions. Why I Founded Mission Financial Planners When the world changed in 2020, I saw firsthand how important trusted financial guidance and long-term planning are—especially in uncertain times. People needed clear, reliable advice, and I wanted to create a firm that prioritized client education, holistic planning, and fiduciary responsibility. That’s why I founded Mission Financial Planners, where we help clients navigate retirement planning, tax strategies, business transitions, and estate planning with confidence and clarity. The 26’s – My Family, My Greatest Purpose At the core of everything I do is my family—Crystal, Chloe, and Charlotte, or as I like to call them, the 26’s. Crystal and I were married on the 26th of the month, and both of our brilliant, strong, and beautiful daughters were born on the 26th. Without Crystal, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. Her unwavering support, love, and wisdom have shaped me in ways I can’t put into words. Without knowing it, my daughters challenge me to be a better person every day. They inspire me to set an example of hard work, integrity, and resilience—not just in my career but in life. Beyond Finance: History, Metal, and the Outdoors Outside of my work, I’m passionate about history, metal music, and spending time outdoors. My love for history gives me a strategic perspective on financial markets, while my passion for music fuels my creativity and discipline. Whether I’m attending concerts, hiking, or exploring new places, I believe in the power of lifelong learning and new experiences. Looking Ahead At Mission Financial Planners, I’m committed to expanding our firm through recruiting, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships. I’m looking for like-minded professionals who share my vision of delivering high-quality, client-first financial solutions. At the end of the day, I believe that financial security isn’t just about wealth—it’s about freedom, choices, and peace of mind. My mission is to help my clients build a strong financial foundation that allows them to live life on their own terms. If you’re looking for a partner to help you make smart financial decisions, optimize your retirement, and secure your financial future, I’d love to start the conversation.