Choosing the right financial advisor is crucial for growing your wealth, preparing for retirement or navigating complex financial topics like tax and estate planning.
The quality of advice and strategies can significantly impact your financial outcomes.
We evaluate more than 10 popular online financial advisors to help you find the best option for your needs if you’re seeking professional financial guidance. These needs include planning for retirement, managing investments, handling debt or navigating major life events.
We examine costs, account minimums, advisor credentials, services offered and more and focus only on services that provide human financial advice.
Discover which financial advisors are best suited to your financial needs.
10+ financial advisors reviewed and rated by our team of experts
Evaluated under our unbiased rating system covering six categories
20+ years of combined experience covering financial topics
We're big on editorial independence. That means our content, reviews and ratings are fair, accurate and trustworthy. We don't let advertisers or partners sway our opinions. Our financial experts put in the hard work, spending hours researching and analyzing hundreds of products based on data-driven methodologies to find the best accounts and providers for you. Explore our editorial guidelines to see how we work.
For its competitively priced flat-fee membership, which includes comprehensive financial planning and investment management from a dedicated certified financial planner (CFP).
Facet's flat-fee model ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 per year, with its highest plan offering a dedicated CFP, eight virtual sessions over two years and unlimited messaging access. Its personalized planning covers all financial topics, including cash flow, debt management, retirement planning, company stock plan guidance and more. Investment management is included at no extra cost, featuring tax-loss harvesting, low-cost exchange-traded fund (ETF) portfolio management and guidance on external accounts. Facet's competitively priced, comprehensive services make it our top choice for the best flat fee and best overall fiduciary financial advisor for retirement and other goals.
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
$2,000–$6,000
Advisory fee
0%
Free consultation
Yes
For its competitively priced flat-fee membership, which includes comprehensive financial planning and investment management from a dedicated certified financial planner (CFP).
Facet's flat-fee model ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 per year, with its highest plan offering a dedicated CFP, eight virtual sessions over two years and unlimited messaging access. Its personalized planning covers all financial topics, including cash flow, debt management, retirement planning, company stock plan guidance and more. Investment management is included at no extra cost, featuring tax-loss harvesting, low-cost exchange-traded fund (ETF) portfolio management and guidance on external accounts. Facet's competitively priced, comprehensive services make it our top choice for the best flat fee and best overall fiduciary financial advisor for retirement and other goals.
Pros
No account minimum
Unlimited messaging with a dedicated fiduciary CFP professional
JP Morgan combines human advisors with modern digital tools to offer tailored financial planning and investment guidance. You can receive unlimited personalized advice remotely or in person if that's your thing. Plus, you'll get investment strategies backed by JP Morgan's market research and portfolio management expertise. For Chase customers, it provides the convenience of managing banking, investing and financial planning all in one place — making it a great option for those looking to streamline their finances with a well-established bank
Minimum assets
$25,000
Flat fee
Between 0.5%–0.6% of the assets in your account, paid annually
JP Morgan combines human advisors with modern digital tools to offer tailored financial planning and investment guidance. You can receive unlimited personalized advice remotely or in person if that's your thing. Plus, you'll get investment strategies backed by JP Morgan's market research and portfolio management expertise. For Chase customers, it provides the convenience of managing banking, investing and financial planning all in one place — making it a great option for those looking to streamline their finances with a well-established bank
Pros
Unlimited, ongoing human guidance
Convenience of banking all in one place
Automated tax-loss harvesting
Cons
Minimum $25,000 investment
Portfolios limited to mutual funds and ETFs
Annual management fees of up to 0.6%
Minimum assets
$25,000
Flat fee
Between 0.5%–0.6% of the assets in your account, paid annually
INVESTMENT PRODUCTS ARE: NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE.
Minimum assets
$25,000
Flat fee
Between 0.5%–0.6% of the assets in your account, paid annually
For its competitive 0.3% annual advisory fee and low-cost investment options.
Vanguard provides personalized financial advice at a fraction of the cost typically associated with traditional advisors. Among the advisors we analyzed, Vanguard offers the lowest annual advisory fee at just 0.3% of assets under management (AUM). Additionally, their low-cost ETFs and mutual funds further reduce investment expenses. Clients benefit from ongoing advice from a dedicated advisor, automated tax-loss harvesting and a cost-effective approach to managing and growing their investments.
Minimum assets
$50,000
Flat fee
All-index investment option: 0.35% annual fee
Advisory fee
All-index investment option: 0.35% annual fee
Free consultation
No
For its competitive 0.3% annual advisory fee and low-cost investment options.
Vanguard provides personalized financial advice at a fraction of the cost typically associated with traditional advisors. Among the advisors we analyzed, Vanguard offers the lowest annual advisory fee at just 0.3% of assets under management (AUM). Additionally, their low-cost ETFs and mutual funds further reduce investment expenses. Clients benefit from ongoing advice from a dedicated advisor, automated tax-loss harvesting and a cost-effective approach to managing and growing their investments.
Pros
Competitive yearly AUM fee of 0.3%
Ongoing advice from a dedicated advisor
Advisors don't receive commissions
Invests in high-quality, low-cost Vanguard funds
Automated tax-loss harvesting
Cons
No comprehensive financial planning
$500,000 minimum might limit accessibility
Recommends its own funds, which can be a conflict of interest
For its transparent, flat-fee pricing and comprehensive financial planning services.
While Facet is our top choice for best overall and best flat-fee financial advisor, Domain Money is an excellent alternative, offering comprehensive financial planning services with transparent, predictable pricing. Its three plans, ranging from $2,800 to $7,800, cater to various needs: a one-page plan to organize your current finances, a strategic plan to address up to three focus areas or a comprehensive plan with a six-month engagement covering all financial aspects. Each plan includes unlimited email access with a dedicated CFP advisor.
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
Strategic Plan: $4,500 flat fee
Advisory fee
N/A
Free consultation
Yes
For its transparent, flat-fee pricing and comprehensive financial planning services.
While Facet is our top choice for best overall and best flat-fee financial advisor, Domain Money is an excellent alternative, offering comprehensive financial planning services with transparent, predictable pricing. Its three plans, ranging from $2,800 to $7,800, cater to various needs: a one-page plan to organize your current finances, a strategic plan to address up to three focus areas or a comprehensive plan with a six-month engagement covering all financial aspects. Each plan includes unlimited email access with a dedicated CFP advisor.
For seamlessly connecting individuals to vetted financial advisors.
Zoe Financial streamlines access to top-tier, personalized financial advice by matching clients with pre-screened, fee-only fiduciary advisors. All advisors are accredited, holding certifications such as CFP, certified financial analyst (CFA) or certified public accountant (CPA), and have no broker-dealer affiliations, ensuring they earn no commissions on recommended products. Zoe Financial also charges no fees to individuals using its platform to connect with advisors. Many advisors offer comprehensive services, from financial planning to investment management, often with no minimum investment requirements.
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
$100–$5,000
Advisory fee
Up to 1.5%
Free consultation
Yes
For seamlessly connecting individuals to vetted financial advisors.
Zoe Financial streamlines access to top-tier, personalized financial advice by matching clients with pre-screened, fee-only fiduciary advisors. All advisors are accredited, holding certifications such as CFP, certified financial analyst (CFA) or certified public accountant (CPA), and have no broker-dealer affiliations, ensuring they earn no commissions on recommended products. Zoe Financial also charges no fees to individuals using its platform to connect with advisors. Many advisors offer comprehensive services, from financial planning to investment management, often with no minimum investment requirements.
Pros
Marketplace of vetted, fee-only independent financial advisors
Free to use the Zoe Financial platform to find an advisor
Easily compare advisors by services and costs
Zoe Financial refunds your advisor fees if you're unsatisfied
For its tailored, women-first financial planning and advice.
Ellevest stands as a pioneer in women-first investing and financial planning. Its Private Wealth Management service is finely tuned to address the distinct financial challenges and aspirations of women, offering tailor-made investment strategies and financial planning aligned with these needs. Ellevest's suite of services encompasses impact investing, emphasizing companies that champion women's advancement, alongside comprehensive wealth management spanning retirement planning to estate management. With a team of seasoned advisors dedicated to empowering women financially, Ellevest is our top choice for high-net-worth women and families seeking personalized financial guidance and support.
Minimum assets
$1,000,000
Flat fee
N/A
Advisory fee
1%
Free consultation
Yes
For its tailored, women-first financial planning and advice.
Ellevest stands as a pioneer in women-first investing and financial planning. Its Private Wealth Management service is finely tuned to address the distinct financial challenges and aspirations of women, offering tailor-made investment strategies and financial planning aligned with these needs. Ellevest's suite of services encompasses impact investing, emphasizing companies that champion women's advancement, alongside comprehensive wealth management spanning retirement planning to estate management. With a team of seasoned advisors dedicated to empowering women financially, Ellevest is our top choice for high-net-worth women and families seeking personalized financial guidance and support.
Pros
Women-centric approach
Private, impact-focused alternative investments in addition to traditional investments
Comprehensive, full-service financial planning included
Best financial advisor near me (with in-person options)
Harness Wealth
For its marketplace that includes financial advisors with face-to-face meeting options.
While Harness Wealth is our runner-up in the best financial advisor marketplace category, it's the sole online platform we evaluated offering in-person meetings. Its network comprises pre-vetted independent, fee-only advisors, and it's free to use. Harness Wealth provides tailored advisory services, encompassing comprehensive financial planning, tax preparation, estate planning and holistic wealth management, often with no minimum investment requirements. This unique blend of accessibility, personalized service and a diverse network of experts positions Harness Wealth as an attractive option for individuals seeking comprehensive financial guidance.
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
$1,000–$5,000
Advisory fee
Up to 1.5%
Free consultation
Yes
For its marketplace that includes financial advisors with face-to-face meeting options.
While Harness Wealth is our runner-up in the best financial advisor marketplace category, it's the sole online platform we evaluated offering in-person meetings. Its network comprises pre-vetted independent, fee-only advisors, and it's free to use. Harness Wealth provides tailored advisory services, encompassing comprehensive financial planning, tax preparation, estate planning and holistic wealth management, often with no minimum investment requirements. This unique blend of accessibility, personalized service and a diverse network of experts positions Harness Wealth as an attractive option for individuals seeking comprehensive financial guidance.
Pros
Offers access to online and in-person financial advisors
Some advisors have no minimum investment requirements
Free to use the Harness Wealth platform to find an advisor
Harness Wealth refunds your advisor fees if you're unsatisfied
Free initial consultation
Cons
No mobile app
Annual advisory fees can be on the high end
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
$1,000–$5,000
Advisory fee
Up to 1.5%
Free consultation
Yes
Minimum assets
$0
Flat fee
$1,000–$5,000
Advisory fee
Up to 1.5%
Free consultation
Yes
Best for crypto investing advice
Betterment Premium
For its tailored strategies and expert guidance on crypto, general investing, tax strategies, retirement savings and more.
Betterment Premium offers a range of financial services backed by unlimited, on-demand support from experienced CFP professionals. Its advice service includes personalized investment management and holistic financial planning covering areas such as debt management, savings strategies, retirement planning and guidance on emerging sectors like crypto investments. Clients also receive assistance in creating a consolidated financial plan encompassing assets beyond Betterment, as well as support in managing both crypto and traditional investments.
Minimum assets
$100,000
Flat fee
N/A
Advisory fee
0.65%–1.40%
Free consultation
No
For its tailored strategies and expert guidance on crypto, general investing, tax strategies, retirement savings and more.
Betterment Premium offers a range of financial services backed by unlimited, on-demand support from experienced CFP professionals. Its advice service includes personalized investment management and holistic financial planning covering areas such as debt management, savings strategies, retirement planning and guidance on emerging sectors like crypto investments. Clients also receive assistance in creating a consolidated financial plan encompassing assets beyond Betterment, as well as support in managing both crypto and traditional investments.
Pros
Unlimited support from CFP professionals
Customized plans covering crypto and traditional investing, tax strategies, retirement savings and more
Assistance managing crypto investments
Cons
$100,000 minimum may limit accessibility
Limited portfolio customization options
Annual fee as high as 1.4% for crypto investing with Betterment Premium services
Minimum assets
$100,000
Flat fee
N/A
Advisory fee
0.65%–1.40%
Free consultation
No
Minimum assets
$100,000
Flat fee
N/A
Advisory fee
0.65%–1.40%
Free consultation
No
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Our methodology: How we choose the best financial advisors
Finder’s investments experts review more than 10 online financial advisors available on the market to narrow down the best for people looking for advice, investment management and comprehensive financial planning.
We analyze each platform based on 41 key metrics we collect directly from brokers and assess each provider’s performance based on six different categories, weighing each metric based on the expertise and insights of Finder’s investment experts. We then score and rank each provider depending on its performance in each category.
How we weigh the overall rating
Category
Weighting
Advisor access and credentials
20%
Services offered
20%
Investment strategies
15%
Costs and fees
20%
Account minimum
20%
Customer support
5%
We update our best picks as products change, disappear or emerge in the market. We also regularly review and revise our selections to ensure our best provider lists reflect the most competitive available.
What to look for when choosing the best financial advisor
Finder’s picks for the best financial advisors are meant to provide a starting point for finding the right option for your financial needs and goals. That said, it’s important to consider your personal preferences too.
Credentials and experience. Look for advisors with CFP, CFA or CPA designations, and ensure they have experience relevant to your financial needs. The CFP designation is widely regarded as the gold standard in the financial planning industry. These individuals are held to a strict code of ethics and must act as fiduciaries, meaning they are legally obligated to act in their clients’ best interests.
Fee structure. Understand how the advisor charges for their services. Common structures include flat fees, hourly rates or a percentage of AUM. Choose one that aligns with your budget and preferences.
Fiduciary duty. Ensure the advisor is a fiduciary, meaning they are legally obligated to act in your best interest.
Services offered. Financial advisory services can include investment management, retirement planning, tax advice, estate planning and debt management. Some financial advisors offer basic financial advice, while others provide comprehensive financial planning services for all aspects of your life.
Investment philosophy. Make sure the advisor’s investment approach aligns with your risk tolerance, time horizon and financial goals.
Communication and availability. Consider how often you want to meet with your advisor and their availability for ongoing support and questions. Many advisors offer unlimited communication through email or phone and limited virtual or in-person sessions.
Reputation and reviews. Check reviews, testimonials and references from current or past clients. Research any disciplinary actions or complaints using BrokerCheck by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Technology and tools. Evaluate the technology and tools the advisor uses for portfolio management, financial planning and communication. Not all financial advisors offer a mobile app.
Transparency. Look for advisors who are transparent about their fees, services and potential conflicts of interest.
Personal rapport. Importantly, choose an advisor you feel comfortable with and can trust, as a strong working relationship is crucial for long-term financial planning. Many advisors offer a free initial consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth paying for a financial advisor?
Yes, paying for a financial advisor is worth it if you need personalized financial planning, investment management and expert advice to achieve your financial goals.
What is the best type of financial advisor to have?
A fiduciary financial advisor with CFP designation is best, ensuring personalized, ethical and comprehensive financial planning tailored to your specific needs.
Matt Miczulski is an investments editor at Finder. With over 450 bylines, Matt dissects and reviews brokers and investing platforms to expose perks and pain points, explores investment products and concepts and covers market news, making investing more accessible and helping readers to make informed financial decisions.
Before joining Finder in 2021, Matt covered everything from finance news and banking to debt and travel for FinanceBuzz. His expertise and analysis on investing and other financial topics has been featured on CBS, MSN, Best Company and Consolidated Credit, among others. Matt holds a BA in history from William Paterson University. See full bio
Matt's expertise
Matt has written 190 Finder guides across topics including:
Some of the best ways to invest and make money daily include buying stocks and ETFs, using a high-yield savings account and staking crypto.
Advertiser disclosure
Finder.com is an independent comparison platform and information service that aims to provide you with the tools you need to make better decisions. While we are independent, the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which Finder receives compensation. We may receive compensation from our partners for placement of their products or services. We may also receive compensation if you click on certain links posted on our site. While compensation arrangements may affect the order, position or placement of product information, it doesn't influence our assessment of those products. Please don't interpret the order in which products appear on our Site as any endorsement or recommendation from us. Finder compares a wide range of products, providers and services but we don't provide information on all available products, providers or services. Please appreciate that there may be other options available to you than the products, providers or services covered by our service.
We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.
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