Financial Advisors in California

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.