Do I Need a Financial Advisor?
Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you find the right advisor
Question 1 of 3
What do you need help with?
Types of Financial Advisory Services
🏖️Retirement PlanningRRSP, RRIF, pension, CPP/OAS optimization, retirement income📈Investment ManagementPortfolio management, ETFs, mutual funds, stocks, bonds📋Tax PlanningTax-efficient investing, income splitting, capital gains strategies🏛️Estate & Succession PlanningWills, trusts, estate tax minimization, wealth transfer🛡️Insurance & Risk ManagementLife insurance, disability, critical illness, long-term care💳Debt ManagementDebt consolidation, credit counselling, bankruptcy alternatives🏢Business Financial PlanningCorporate planning, shareholder agreements, business succession🎓Young Professional PlanningFirst job, student debt, TFSA, first home savings, budgeting⚖️Divorce Financial PlanningAsset division, pension splitting, post-divorce financial restart💰General Financial AdviceComprehensive financial planning and wealth management
Find a Financial Advisor Near You
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a financial advisor cost?▾
Fee-only advisors charge $150-$350/hour or $1,500-$5,000 for a comprehensive plan. Commission-based advisors earn from product sales (no direct cost to you, but potential conflicts). Fee-based advisors combine both. AUM (assets under management) fees are typically 1-1.5% annually.
What's the difference between a financial advisor and a financial planner?▾
A financial planner creates comprehensive plans covering all aspects of your finances. A financial advisor may focus on investment management specifically. In Canada, look for the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) designation for comprehensive planning, or CFA for investment expertise.
When should I hire a financial advisor?▾
Consider an advisor when: you have $50K+ in investable assets, approaching major life changes (marriage, kids, divorce, retirement), inheriting money, starting a business, or you simply don't have time to manage your finances. The earlier you start, the more compound growth works for you.
How do I verify a financial advisor's credentials?▾
Check FP Canada's registry for CFP holders, CFA Institute for CFA charterholders, and your provincial securities commission for registered advisors. Ask about their registration category, compensation model, and any disciplinary history. All registered advisors must disclose this information.
What should I ask a financial advisor at the first meeting?▾
Ask: How are you compensated? What are your qualifications/designations? What's your investment philosophy? How often will we meet? What's your typical client profile? Can you provide references? Do you have a fiduciary duty to me? A good advisor welcomes these questions.