MMPs were asked about budgeting and investing with their clients. Responses help set a basic standard for practices when working with the middle market. Planners were first asked how they handle the process the of cutting expenses to achieve retirement goals. The majority of planners responded similarly to the following "After having the conversation that expenses need to be cut, the clients determine how they are going to cut their expenses." A smaller group of planners take a more hands-on approach. For example, one planner stated. "I in my practice analyzes their spending and makes some specific recommendations for cutting expenses." "Three percent refer clients to a financial professional with expertise on budgeting, and 5 percent take a different strategy.