How can I find a new financial advisor?

Finding a new financial advisor is an important decision that can significantly impact your financial well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the right advisor for your needs:

Find new financial advisor

1. Identify Your Needs

  • Are you looking for retirement planning, investment advice, tax planning, estate planning, or a combination?

  • Decide if you want ongoing advice or just a one-time consultation.

2. Decide on the Type of Advisor

  • Fee-only advisors: Paid only by clients, not by commission. Often seen as more objective.

  • Fee-based advisors: May earn commissions and fees.

  • Commission-based advisors: Earn money by selling financial products.

  • Fiduciary advisors: Legally required to act in your best interest.

3. Search for Advisors

4. Check Credentials

5. Interview Multiple Advisors

  • Ask about their experience, specialties, and how they get paid.

  • Inquire about their investment philosophy and approach to financial planning.

  • Request sample financial plans or references.

  • Not sure what to ask? Reach out to Amy.

6. Ask the Right Questions

  • How do you get paid?

  • What are the technology platforms you offer so I can track my needs when you’re not around (ie. the weekends or after hours)?

  • How many clients do you have? If over 30, how do they manage this all?

  • Besides investments, what services do you offer? If they say tax planning, push further: What exactly does that mean? Can you do my taxes?

  • Besides putting me in stock and bond funds, what is your investment approach? Do you offer any other unique investment opportunities?

  • How will we communicate and how often? Who do I call when I need help on the weekends?

Amy Parvaneh is a former wealth management faculty professor, has worked with 100s of advisory firms around the globe, and has served as a wealth manager herself at Goldman Sachs. Reach out so she can guide and coach you through this daunting process of finding a new wealth manager.

7. Understand Fees

  • Typical models: Hourly, flat fee, percentage of assets under management (AUM), or commission.

    • We have written more about advisor fees here.

  • Make sure you’re clear on all costs before you commit.

8. Review Disclosures and Agreements

  • Ask for Form ADV (disclosure document for investment advisors).

  • Review the contract and privacy policy carefully.

9. Check for Red Flags

  • High-pressure sales tactics, promises of guaranteed returns, lack of credentials, or reluctance to share information.

10. Start with a Trial Period

  • Consider starting with a limited engagement before committing long-term.

Would you like help finding specific advisors in your area, or do you need a checklist for interviewing advisors?

Contact us to help you with the process