Finding the right financial advisor can be life-changing. The right person won’t just help you grow your money—they’ll help you align your finances with your life purpose, plan confidently through transitions, and ensure you’re prepared for the full arc of a 100-year life. But not all advisors are the same, and many people don’t know what questions to ask to uncover who’s truly the right fit.

Before you commit to any advisor, planner, or wealth manager, take the time to have a candid conversation. Treat it like hiring a long-term partner: you’re looking for someone with integrity, aligned values, and a willingness to educate—not just manage your money. Here are the essential questions to ask when considering a financial advisor.

Are you a fiduciary?

This is the most important question. Fiduciaries are legally required to act in your best interest. Some advisors are only held to a “suitability” standard, meaning they can recommend a product that’s “good enough,” even if it’s not the best option for you. Always choose a fiduciary. You can verify their status through theSEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure tool.

How do you get paid?

Compensation models influence advice. Fee-only advisors (not to be confused with fee-based) are paid directly by you, either through a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage of your assets under management. This model helps minimize conflicts of interest. If the advisor also earns commissions from product sales, ask what percentage of their income comes from those products—and why they recommend them. For more on pay structures, visitNAPFA.

What certifications do you hold?

Ask whether they’re a CFP® (Certified Financial Planner), CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst), CPA® (Certified Public Accountant), or hold another relevant designation. You can verify credentials directly through theCFP Board,CFA Institute, or your state’s CPA board. Certification indicates education, ethics, and ongoing learning—important for long-term relationships.

Who is your ideal client?

This question helps you understand if they regularly work with people like you. Some advisors specialize in high-net-worth families. Others may focus on young professionals, small business owners, or those nearing retirement. If they say “anyone,” that may be a red flag. You want someone with depth in your specific life stage and goals.

What services do you offer?

Not every advisor offers comprehensive financial planning. Some may focus only on investment management, while others include budgeting, retirement planning, tax strategies, insurance reviews, estate planning, or legacy work. Make sure their services match your needs—and that they’re proactive, not just reactive.

How do you build client relationships?

Ask how often you’ll meet, whether they offer written plans, and how they track progress. Will they adjust your plan as your life evolves—new career, relocation, caregiving, or divorce? Financial planning is never “set it and forget it.” Look for advisors who offer regular check-ins and act as thought partners, not just asset managers.

What tools or platforms do you use?

Do they use modern planning software? Will you get a dashboard to track progress? Do they offer secure online portals? Technology isn’t everything, but it can improve clarity, communication, and collaboration—especially for clients who want to stay engaged in their planning.

What happens if I need to change or leave?

There should never be pressure to stay in a relationship that isn’t working. Ask whether their contracts are flexible, how they handle transitions, and if they charge exit fees. You deserve transparency and freedom.

Do you work with estate planning attorneys, accountants, or other professionals?

Many life decisions—inheritance, long-term care, charitable giving—require collaboration across disciplines. Advisors who already have a trusted network, or are willing to coordinate with yours, can save you time and ensure your plans are executed well.

Hiring a financial advisor isn’t about outsourcing your decisions—it’s about building a partnership that supports your evolving life. Asking the right questions upfront gives you clarity, confidence, and control.

Are you currently interviewing financial professionals or working with one now? What questions helped you make your decision—or what do you wish you’d asked earlier? Share your experience in theAge Brilliantly Forum and help others make smarter, more intentional choices.

In the next article, we’ll explore an equally important topic: When do you actually need a financial advisor—and when might you not? Understanding the timing of professional guidance can save you money and help you know when to navigate things on your own versus when expert insight is essential.