How can I choose a financial advisor I can trust?
Answer: Choose an advisor whose experience matches your needs and who clearly explains fees, risks, and conflicts of interest. Ask whether they act as a fiduciary throughout your relationship. Verify registration and disciplinary history through Investor.gov or FINRA BrokerCheck, review disclosure documents, and compare several advisors before committing. Registration alone does not guarantee trustworthiness.
By Edward Papier, CIMA, CF2, CM&AA ยท Last updated November 5, 2026
What is the difference between fee-only and fee-based advisors?
A fee-only advisor is paid only by clients, through a percentage of assets, a flat fee or an hourly rate, and earns no commissions. A fee-based advisor charges client fees but may also earn commissions on products such as insurance or annuities. The labels sound alike, so ask directly how the advisor and the firm are paid.
How much do wealth managers charge?
Many charge a percentage of assets managed, often around 1% a year, with the rate usually falling as the account grows. Others charge flat annual fees or hourly rates for planning. Fund expenses and any commissions come on top of the advisory fee, so compare the total cost, not just the headline rate.
What questions should I ask a financial advisor?
Ask whether they act as a fiduciary at all times, how they are paid, and what the total cost of their advice will be. Ask what their typical client looks like, how they build portfolios, who holds your money, and how often you will hear from them. Then read their Form ADV and check their record.
Talk to us
To talk through your own situation, please call 212-697-3930, email ep@amadeuswealth.com, or schedule a meeting at calendly.com/ep-awa.
Edward Papier, CIMA, CF2, CM&AA
President, Amadeus Wealth Alternatives, Hackensack, NJ
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