Choosing the right financial advisor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your financial future. A good advisor can guide you through financial planning, investment strategy, retirement planning, and tax optimization—but not all advisors are the same.

If you’ve ever searched “how do I choose a financial advisor?” you know the options can be overwhelming. To help you narrow it down, here are seven essential questions to ask before hiring a financial advisor.

1. Are You a Fiduciary?

Not every financial professional is legally required to put your best interests first. A fiduciary advisor must always act in your best interest, rather than recommending products that pay them more.

 Ask directly: “Are you a fiduciary?” or “Will you act as a fiduciary for me at all times?”

2. How Do You Get Paid?

Advisors are compensated in different ways:

• Fee-only: You pay a flat fee, hourly rate, or a percentage of assets under management (AUM).
  
  
• Fee-based: The advisor earns money from selling financial products such as insurance products or referrals as well as regular fees for advisory services.
  
  

Transparency matters. Understanding how an advisor gets paid helps you avoid hidden costs or conflicts of interest.

3. What Services Do You Provide?

Some advisors only manage investments, while others offer full wealth management services, such as:

• Retirement planning
  
  
• Investment management
  
  
• Tax planning strategies
  
  
• Risk management and insurance
  
  
• Estate planning
  
  

Look for an advisor who offers services that match both your current needs and your future goals.

4. What Are Your Credentials and Experience?

Credentials matter. Look for designations such as:

• CFP® (Certified Financial Planner™)
  
  
• CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst®)
  
  
• CPA (Certified Public Accountant) for tax expertise
  
  

There are so many different professional designations that exist out there. Equally important is experience. Ask if they have worked with clients like you—entrepreneurs, tech professionals, or families planning for retirement, etc.

5. Who Is Your Typical Client?

Every advisor has a “sweet spot.” Some focus on high-net-worth individuals, while others specialize in professionals, small business owners, teachers or retirees.

The closer their client base is to your situation, the more relevant and customized their advice will be.

6. How Will We Work Together?

The relationship with your advisor should feel clear and collaborative. Ask:

• How often will we meet?
  
  
• Do you provide ongoing financial planning or one-time advice?
  
  
• Will I work directly with you, or with a team?
  
  

This ensures you understand the level of support you’ll receive.

7. What’s Your Investment Philosophy?

Advisors approach investing differently. Some emphasize long-term asset allocation and diversification, while others use more active strategies or offer alternative investments.

 Make sure their philosophy aligns with your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals.

Key Takeaways

• Always confirm if the advisor is a fiduciary.
  
  
• Understand their compensation model.
  
  
• Match their services, credentials, and client profile to your needs.
  
  
• Make sure their investment philosophy and communication style work for you.
  
  

The right financial advisor isn’t just someone who manages your investments—it’s a trusted partner who helps you build clarity, confidence, and long-term financial success. It’s a long-term partnership so make sure to take your time when making this decision.

Local Note for Bay Area Clients

If you’re searching for a financial advisor in San Francisco or the Bay Area, you face unique challenges—high cost of living, equity compensation, and complex tax planning. Finding the right advisor means finding someone who understands both local realities and national wealth strategies.