Looking for how to find a financial advisor that actually understands your goals, values, and financial situation? It can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you’re not quite sure what to look for. But the right advisor can make a huge difference in helping you reach your financial goals. Whether you’re looking for help with budgeting, investing, retirement planning, or all of the above, this guide will walk you through how to find a financial advisor who fits your needs.
Before I get into all the specifics, here are my 3 biggest pieces of advice:
- Pray. Ask God for wisdom in making this decision and discernment while researching and talking with potential advisors.
- Be in agreement with your spouse. Spend time on the front end figuring out what you are both looking for and what the priorities are in finding an advisor. Both of you should interview each advisor so that you can each get a feel for who they are & whether it’s a good fit.
- Listen to your gut. If something feels off, you think they are just trying to sell you something, or it simply seems like a poor good fit – stop and don’t move forward with that advisor. Take your time and find someone who you (and your spouse) feel truly comfortable with and trust.
Step 1: Determine What Financial Services You Need
Before you start Googling how to find a financial advisor or asking for referrals, take a few minutes to think about what kind of help you’re actually looking for. Financial advisors can specialize in all sorts of things, like:
- Budgeting and cash flow planning
- Debt repayment strategies
- Investing and portfolio management
- Retirement planning
- Tax strategies
- Estate planning
- Education savings
- Charitable giving
Some advisors offer full-service planning, while others focus on just one or two areas. Knowing what you need will help you avoid paying for services you don’t use and make it easier to find the right fit.
Also think about the level of engagement you are looking for. Are you a DIY investor who simply wants a professional to do a one-time review of your plan? Or are you looking for ongoing help in this area of your life knowing you don’t have either the time, knowledge, and/or interest to manage the complexities of your finances?
There are even some advisors that go beyond numbers and help you more holistically with aligning your finances and life with your values and purpose. They may address areas like faith, family, relationships, career, and goal setting to look at how they overlap with your financial life. Understand what areas are important to you and what you want your advisor to speak into.
Step 2: Understand What a Financial Advisor Is
What to Know Before You Find a Financial Advisor
Before diving into the search, it helps to understand the basics of what a financial advisor is, the types of advisors out there, and what working with one really looks like.
Key Financial Terms
Not all financial advisors are created equal. There are different types, and not all of them are held to the same standards. Here are a few key terms to know:
Fiduciary
This means the advisor is legally required to act in your best interest. It’s a good idea to look for someone who is a fiduciary.
Fee-only vs. Fee-based
- Fee-only advisors are paid only by YOU, the client. No commissions.
- Fee-based advisors might also earn commissions for selling investment or insurance products, which can lead to conflicts of interest.
Broker-Dealer vs. RIA
- Broker-Dealer: A firm or individual licensed to buy and sell securities. Advisors affiliated with broker-dealers can earn commissions and are typically held to the “suitability” standard (though many are also held to Reg BI—Best Interest—standards).
- RIA (Registered Investment Advisor): A firm or individual registered with the SEC or state regulators. RIAs are legally required to act as fiduciaries, meaning they must always put your best interests first. They typically earn fees (not commissions).
Credentials to Look For
- CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) – the industry standard for comprehensive financial planning
- ChFC® (Chartered Financial Consultant) – another general financial planning designation
- CKA® (Certified Kingdom Advisor) – designation for Christian financial advisors
- CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst) – an investment-focused designation rather than general financial planning
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – familiar to many, focuses on accounting and tax principles
- CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) – focuses largely on whole life insurance & annuities
While they don’t tell you everything, these designations show that an advisor has committed to pursuing professional development and can reveal areas where they have focused their education. Many come with their own standards of conduct & ethics and require annual continuing education.
Understanding the Types of Advisors
There are several types of financial advisors based on their focus and how they operate:
Insurance-Focused Advisors
These advisors primarily sell insurance products such as life insurance and annuities.As such, they are generally paid through product commissions. They may be helpful for risk management but may not provide holistic financial planning. These products in-and-of-themselves are not bad & serve a purpose in select cases, but be wary of any professional that pushes them as a solution for everyone.
Investment-Focused Advisors
These professionals often work with brokerage firms and focus mainly on building and managing investment portfolios. They may or may not offer financial planning. Most often they charge asset-based fees. Some do offer commission-based investment products like mutual funds that have “sales charges.”
Planning-Focused Advisors
These are typically CFP® or ChFC® professionals who emphasize creating comprehensive financial plans that include budgeting, retirement, taxes, estate planning, and more. They may or may not offer investment management and a few sell products like insurance.
Robo-Advisors
Automated platforms that offer low-cost investment management using algorithms. Good for simple investment needs, but usually lack personal interaction. This approach requires you to answer a few questions and then places you in one of their pre-set investment models.
Firm Size: What to Consider When Choosing a Financial Advisor
The size of the firm your advisor works for can shape your overall experience. From solo practices to national firms, each has its pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you think it through:
Solo Advisors
- Pros: Highly personalized service; you’re often working directly with the advisor who knows your situation well.
- Cons: Limited availability or resources if the advisor is away or managing many clients.
Small Teams or Ensembles
- Pros: More collaborative support and specialized roles (e.g. tax planning, investments, client service).
- Cons: You may work with multiple people instead of one dedicated advisor, which some clients find less personal.
Larger RIA Firms
- Pros: Broader range of services, robust infrastructure, and continuity if your primary advisor retires or changes roles.
- Cons: Can feel more corporate; some firms may prioritize efficiency or profitability over personalization.
Wirehouses or National Brokerage Firms
- Pros: Name recognition, deep resources, and access to proprietary research or products.
- Cons: Advisors may be encouraged to promote in-house products or meet firm-wide sales goals, which can introduce conflicts of interest.
Think about what matters most to you: Do you want a close, one-on-one relationship? Or do you value having a team with different specialties supporting you? There’s no “best” size—it’s about the right fit for your needs and preferences.
Step 3: Decide What You’re Willing to Pay for a Financial Advisor’s Services
Financial advice comes in different shapes, sizes, and price tags. It’s important to understand how your advisor is getting paid and what services are included. The scope of work and the type of engagement will certainly impact the cost.
If you are looking for an ongoing planning relationship that covers all aspects of your finance it will likely be priced differently than a limited one-time plan for a specific topic. Similarly, if they are only going to manage investments and not do any financial planning, the pricing should reflect the services provided. The great thing is that there are many service models and fee structures so you can find one that matches your needs.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how financial advisors get paid:
- Percentage of assets under management (AUM): Usually around 1% per year.
- Flat fee: You pay a set amount for a financial plan.
- Hourly rate: Good for quick consultations or limited engagements.
- Monthly/annual retainer: For ongoing support.
- Commission: advisors are compensated by the product being sold and is based on the size of the transaction.
Some advisors have minimum investment requirements – particularly those who charge based on AUM. Others may have minimum fees or offer multiple service levels to choose from. Be careful not to compare apples to oranges here – while you should certainly look at the total cost (in dollar amounts), keep in mind the varying levels of services being offered, the complexity of your situation, and the level of experience & expertise of the advisor.
Watch for Potential Conflicts of Interest
Not all advice is created equal—some advisors may have conflicts of interest that influence their recommendations. There’s likely no way to completely eliminate all potential conflicts of interest, but it’s important that they disclose them and that you understand them. Here are a few to look out for:
- Commissions: Advisors who earn commissions from selling insurance, annuities, or certain investment products may be incentivized to recommend products that earn them more, rather than what’s best for you. This is most common with commission-based or fee-based advisors who are affiliated with broker-dealers.
- Proprietary Products: Advisors who work for a large firm may be encouraged to sell the firm’s own investment or insurance products, even if better options exist elsewhere.
- Dual Registrations: Some advisors are both brokers and fiduciaries, meaning they can switch roles depending on the service they’re providing. Be sure to ask which role they’re acting in when giving advice.
- Revenue Sharing or Referral Fees: Some advisors may receive compensation for referring you to outside services (e.g. insurance or lending partners), which may affect their objectivity.
- Assets Under Management (AUM) Incentives: Advisors who charge based on a percentage of assets under management earn more when you transfer more assets to their firm and keep them there. This could discourage them from recommending strategies like paying off debt, investing in real estate, or giving generously if it means lowering the assets they manage.
Step 4: Find and Research Potential Financial Advisors
Once you know what you need and what you’re willing to spend, it’s time to start your search. Here are a few places to look:
- Ask your network: Friends, family, coworkers, or church members.
- Use online tools: Sites like NAPFA, CFP Board, Fee-Only Advisors, XYPN, and Kingdom Advisors.
- Check employer benefits: Some companies offer financial planning as part of your benefits.
Step 5: Vet the Financial Advisors You’re Interested In
Before you commit, make sure to do a little digging:
- Check credentials and experience
- Confirm they’re a fiduciary
- Look them up on FINRA BrokerCheck or the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure site
- Meet with at least 2–3 advisors before deciding. You’re looking for someone who “gets” you, communicates well, and aligns with your values.
- Ask lots of questions.
Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor
- Are you a fiduciary?
- How do you get paid?
- What services do you provide?
- What is your investment philosophy?
- Do you work with clients like me?
- Will I work with you directly, another advisor, or multiple team members?
- How often do we meet and what happens if something comes up in between?
- If we decide to stop working together, what needs to happen? Are there time restrictions and am I able to get out without any penalties?
- Do you have any disclosures or disciplinary actions?
Key Considerations When Choosing a Financial Advisor
Choosing a financial advisor is about more than just credentials and fees. Here are a few other things to keep in mind:
Local vs. Virtual
Do you prefer to meet face-to-face, or are you comfortable meeting over Zoom or phone? Many advisors work virtually and can serve clients anywhere.
Technology and Tools
Ask what platforms or tools you’ll be using. Will you get access to a client portal? How will you track your progress and communicate?
Values Alignment
Especially if you’re faith-driven or have specific values, find someone who respects and integrates those into your financial plan.
Personality and Trust
This person will be helping you make major life decisions. You should feel comfortable, heard, and respected.
Specialty or Niche Experience
Some advisors specialize in working with young families, business owners, or pre-retirees. Find someone who understands your world.
Independent vs. Captive
Ask whether the advisor is independent or works for a larger firm with proprietary products. Independent advisors generally have more flexibility to recommend solutions that are truly in your best interest, while captive advisors may be limited to products offered by their employer.
Working with a Christian Financial Advisor
If your faith is a core part of your life, you may want to consider working with a Christian financial advisor who shares your values and integrates biblical principles into the planning process.
Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA®)
Look for advisors who are Certified Kingdom Advisors—a designation that demonstrates their training in biblical financial wisdom and personal integrity. CKAs are committed to helping clients be wise stewards of what God has entrusted to them.
Biblical Worldview and Stewardship
Christian advisors often frame financial planning through the lens of stewardship—managing resources as faithful caretakers rather than owners. This may shape how you think about spending, saving, giving, and even retirement.
Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI)
BRI is an investment approach that aligns your portfolio with Christian values. This often means avoiding investments in companies that profit from practices inconsistent with biblical ethics (like pornography, abortion, or gambling), and favoring businesses that promote human flourishing and generosity.
Whole-Person Planning
Beyond numbers, Christian advisors often seek to help clients live with purpose and peace. Financial decisions are aligned not just with goals, but also with calling, values, and legacy.
Working with a faith-based advisor can make it easier to have honest conversations about generosity, purpose, and what matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Financial Advisors
What does a financial planner do?
A financial planner helps you create a plan for your money. That can include budgeting, investing, retirement planning, tax strategies, and more.
Why should I hire a financial advisor?
A good advisor can help you make confident financial decisions, avoid mistakes, and create a long-term strategy aligned with your goals and values.
Is it worth paying a financial advisor?
If you want help with more than just investments or feel unsure about your finances, then yes—the right advisor can more than pay for themselves over time.
Do I need a financial advisor?
Not everyone needs one, but most people benefit from one—especially when life gets more complex (marriage, kids, career changes, retirement, etc.).
When should I hire a financial advisor?
Good times to hire one include getting married, having a child, changing jobs, starting a business, inheriting money, or planning for retirement.
Do I have enough money to work with a financial advisor?
Yes! There are advisors for all income levels. Many now offer flat-fee or subscription-based services with no minimum investment required.
