Learn About Financial Advisors

Everything you need to know about finding and evaluating financial advisors—explained in plain English, backed by official SEC data.

SEC Sourced Data
About Our Data

What is Form ADV? The Foundation of Advisor Transparency

Learn how the SEC requires financial advisors to disclose their background, fees, and business practices—and why this matters for you.

5 min read
Understanding Fees

Fee-Only vs Commission: Understanding How Advisors Get Paid

The way your advisor is compensated affects the advice you receive. Here's what you need to know about different fee models.

6 min read
About Our Data

How to Read an Advisor's Disclosure Record

Disclosures can seem alarming, but not all are created equal. Learn what different types mean and how to evaluate them.

7 min read
Choosing an Advisor

Your First Meeting: 10 Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor

Meeting with a potential advisor? These questions will help you evaluate fit and understand what you're signing up for.

5 min read
Choosing an Advisor

Understanding Areas of Practice: Finding an Advisor Who Specializes in Your Needs

Financial advisors often specialize in certain areas. Learn what different specializations mean and how to find the right fit.

6 min read
Choosing an Advisor

CFP, CFA, ChFC: What Do Advisor Designations Mean?

Those letters after an advisor's name indicate specialized training. Here's what the major designations mean and which matter most.

7 min read
Choosing an Advisor

Solo Practitioner or Large Firm? Understanding Firm Size

From boutique practices to enterprise firms, size affects your experience. Learn the trade-offs of different firm sizes.

5 min read
Choosing an Advisor

How Much Does Advisor Experience Matter?

Years of experience isn't the only factor. Learn when experience matters most and how to evaluate it in your advisor search.

5 min read
Choosing an Advisor

What "Average Client Portfolio" Tells You About an Advisor

AUM per client reveals who an advisor typically works with. Learn how to use this metric to find the right fit for your portfolio size.

6 min read
Understanding Fees

AUM per Advisor: Understanding Advisor Capacity and Attention

How much an advisor manages affects how much attention you'll get. Learn what this metric means for your experience.

5 min read
Understanding Fees

Understanding Estimated Annual Fees

Learn how we calculate fee estimates, what they include, and how to use them to compare advisors effectively.

6 min read
Choosing an Advisor

Minimum Investment Requirements: What They Mean

Most advisors require a minimum portfolio size. Learn what drives these requirements and how to find advisors who fit your situation.

4 min read

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