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    Fiduciary Advisor Finder

    Find an advisor whose ONLY paycheck is YOUR fee.

    "Fiduciary" means everything

    Most financial advisors are paid commissions to sell products (annuities, loaded funds, life insurance). They\'re NOT required to recommend the BEST product — only a "suitable" one.

    Fee-only fiduciaries are paid ONLY by you. They legally must put your interest first. No hidden commissions.

    Where to find one

    • NAPFA.org — National Association of Personal Financial Advisors. ALL members are fee-only fiduciaries. Search by zip code.
    • XYPlanningNetwork.com — fee-only advisors who serve next-gen clients. Many work virtually.
    • Garrett Planning Network — fee-only advisors offering hourly rates. Best for one-time consultations.
    • FINRA BrokerCheck (brokercheck.finra.org) — verify ANY advisor\'s history before hiring.
    • SEC IAPD — verify Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs).

    Pricing models

    • Hourly — $200-400/hour. Best for one-time questions.
    • Flat fee for plan — $1,500-5,000 for a comprehensive plan. Best for "I need a 30-year retirement plan."
    • Percentage of assets (AUM) — typically 0.5-1.0%/year. Best if you want them to manage investments.
    • Subscription — $100-500/month for ongoing planning + check-ins.

    Cheap or free alternatives

    • Vanguard Personal Advisor Services — 0.30%/year. Real CFPs at very low cost. Best for $50k+ portfolios.
    • Schwab Intelligent Advisor — similar to Vanguard.
    • Fidelity Wealth Services — slightly higher fee, more service.
    • Bogleheads.org forum — free community advice from retirees who\'ve done it.
    • SHIP Medicare counseling — free, for Medicare decisions only.

    Questions to ask any advisor

    1. "Are you a fiduciary, fee-only, ALL the time?" Get this in writing.
    2. "How exactly are you paid?" Listen for ANY mention of commissions.
    3. "Do you sell annuities, life insurance, or proprietary funds?" Red flag if yes.
    4. "What\'s your CFP credential?" Look for CFP, CFA, or fee-only fiduciary.
    5. "What are your typical clients\' age and assets?" Match to you.
    6. "Can I see a sample plan you\'ve done?" They should have one.

    Walk away from

    Anyone who pushes you to sell your existing investments and "roll into" their products. Anyone who promises specific market returns. Anyone in your church or social circle who "just got their license". Anyone whose pitch focuses on "tax-free retirement income" via specific products.