Meeting with a financial advisor can feel intimidating if you don’t know what to ask. But asking the right questions can turn a good meeting into a great one. The goal is simple: make sure your money is working for you—not just sitting around.
Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for a house, or paying down debt, your advisor should be your guide. Here are five questions that can help you take control of your financial future.
1. Am I on Track for My Financial Goals?
Define Your Benchmarks
This is where every conversation should start. You need to know where you stand and where you’re headed. Share your goals clearly—whether it’s buying a home, retiring early, or sending kids to college. Then ask your advisor for an honest assessment of your progress.
They should help you define realistic milestones and show you if you’re ahead, behind, or right on pace. A good advisor doesn’t just manage money. They help you build a roadmap.
Adjust Along the Way
Goals change, and your financial plan should too. Ask if your strategy still matches your current situation. Got a raise? Lost a job? Had a baby? Your advisor should help you adjust your plan when life shifts.
2. Is My Investment Strategy Right for Me?
Match Risk to Life Stage
Every investor has a different risk tolerance. The level of risk you’re comfortable with should match where you are in life. If you’re young, you may be able to handle more ups and downs. If you’re nearing retirement, protecting your savings may matter more.
Ask how your investments are currently balanced. Stocks? Bonds? Real estate? Your advisor should explain how each piece fits together and whether it’s time to rebalance.
Think Long-Term
Investing isn’t just about short-term gains. It’s about building lasting wealth. Your advisor should help you focus on the long game. Ask how your current strategy helps you grow your wealth over time without exposing you to unnecessary risk.
3. What’s My Plan for Retirement?
Know Your Income Sources
Social Security, pensions, IRAs, 401(k)s—they all play a part in retirement. Ask your advisor how much income you can expect from each source. Then ask if it will be enough to cover your needs.
This isn’t just about having savings. It’s about knowing how and when to use those savings. Your advisor should give you a clear plan for withdrawals, taxes, and timing.
Prepare for Surprises
What if you live longer than expected? What if the market drops? Your advisor should test your plan under different scenarios. A strong retirement plan can handle a few bumps without falling apart.
4. How Can I Reduce My Taxes?
Understand Your Tax Picture
Taxes don’t stop when you start investing. In fact, they often get more complicated. Ask your advisor how your current strategy affects your tax bill. Are you using tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or HSAs?
They should help you find ways to keep more of what you earn—without crossing any lines. Small changes in how you save or invest can lead to big tax savings over time.
Plan for the Future
It’s not just about today’s taxes. It’s about future taxes too. Ask how to manage taxes in retirement, or when you start taking Social Security. The right strategy now could save you thousands later.
5. What Fees Am I Paying?
Know What You’re Charged
This question is often overlooked. But it matters. Ask your advisor exactly how they’re paid. Is it a flat fee? A percentage of your assets? Are there extra charges for certain investments?
You deserve full transparency. If fees aren’t clear, push for answers. Even small percentages can eat into your returns over time.
Make Sure It’s Worth It
Once you know the fees, ask what you’re getting in return. Are you getting a custom plan? Regular check-ins? Tax advice? You’re not just paying for financial knowledge—you’re paying for service and strategy. Make sure it’s a good deal.
Asking smart questions isn’t about sounding like an expert. It’s about getting the answers you need to make confident decisions. Your financial advisor works for you—so speak up, stay curious, and keep learning.
