QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Choosing a Financial Advisor Questions and Answers
What does a fiduciary financial advisor do?
A fiduciary financial advisor must put the client’s interests first when giving financial advice. In plain English, that means the advisor should recommend what is best for the client, explain material conflicts, and use care and professional judgment rather than steering the client toward what pays the firm more. “Fiduciary” is not a substitute for due diligence. Consumers should still review Form CRS, Form ADV, compensation, and disciplinary history.
How is a financial advisor different from a broker?
A financial advisor is generally in the business of providing investment advice for compensation, often with ongoing portfolio monitoring and planning services. A broker typically effects securities transactions and may be paid differently. For consumers, the practical takeaway is simple: do not assume the service model, fee model, or standard of conduct are the same. Read the relationship summary and ask how the professional is paid, what services are included, and what conflicts may affect recommendations. Some firms are dual registrants or offer both advisory and brokerage services.
What should I ask before hiring a financial advisor?
Start with the questions regulators already tell investors to ask: What are your services; how do fees work; what conflicts affect you; what experience and qualifications do you have; and do you have disciplinary history. Those questions screen for the issues that matter most in real life: cost, conflicts, competence, and trustworthiness. A good advisor should answer clearly and in plain language, not with jargon or evasive disclosures. It is also wise to verify the advisor and the firm through Investor.gov, which has a free search tool rather than relying only on the advisor’s own website.
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At Mazuelos & Company Wealth Management, we understand that every client is unique, and so is their financial journey. Whether you’re planning for retirement, growing your wealth, or securing your legacy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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Disclosures
The information presented in these questions and answers is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment, legal, accounting, or tax advice. The figures cited reflect federal rules and limits for tax year 2026, are subject to change, and may not apply to your situation; state rules vary. Nothing on this page should be interpreted as a recommendation to buy or sell any security or to adopt any particular strategy. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against loss. Mazuelos & Company Wealth Management is a registered investment adviser; registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Before acting on any information presented here, you should consult a qualified financial, tax, or legal professional regarding your specific circumstances. Additional information about the firm, including its Form ADV is available at adviserinfo.sec.gov.