By George P. Jackson, MBA, CPA, CFA, CFP®, CMT, CLU, ChFC
Selecting the right financial advisor is essential for your long-term financial success. But what if the person you once trusted isn’t the right fit anymore? Just like any other professional relationship, your needs can change, and so can the quality of service you’re receiving.
Here are seven clear indicators it may be time to seek a new financial advisor.
1. You Only Hear From Them When You Call First
An effective advisor is proactive in providing market updates, strategic adjustments, and regular performance reviews without waiting for you to initiate contact. If you only hear from them when you reach out first, service may be falling short.
2. They Have Limited Income and Estate Tax Knowledge
Tax strategy is a key part of managing wealth. While some financial professionals may send you to a separate tax expert, a well-rounded advisor will have enough knowledge to address tax questions directly and provide integrated planning covering Roth conversions, capital gains, and estate tax strategies.
3. They Don’t Explain Things Clearly
Financial concepts can be complex, but your advisor’s job is to make them simple. If they can’t explain an idea in plain language, it may mean they don’t truly understand it themselves. A strong advisor should be able to take complicated strategies and break them down so you can make confident, informed decisions.
4. Your Portfolio Performance Is Not Keeping Up With Your Goals
Market volatility is inevitable, but your portfolio should be structured to meet your objectives and risk tolerance. If returns consistently lag behind your goals without a credible plan to close the gap, it’s time to reassess whether your advisor is delivering real value.
5. You Suspect Hidden Fees or Misaligned Incentives
Transparency is non-negotiable. You should always know how your advisor is compensated, what fees you’re paying, and whether their recommendations are in your best interest. If answers are vague or defensive, it’s time to ask tougher questions or walk away.
6. Your Plan Hasn’t Evolved with Your Life
Life changes such as marriage, career shifts, business sales, children, or new retirement goals require adjustments to your plan. If your advisor is still working from the same playbook they created years ago, you may not be on the ideal path anymore.
7. You Don’t Feel Confident About the Relationship
While financial advice should be objective, confidence in your advisor’s capabilities is essential. If you find yourself second-guessing their advice, feeling uneasy about their motives, or simply not clicking with them anymore, it may be time to explore other options.
The Bottom Line
Your financial advisor should be proactive, transparent, tax-aware, and fully aligned with your evolving goals. If one or more of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to interview new advisors who will give you the clarity, strategy, and trust you and your finances deserve.
About Us
At Jackson Wealth Management, LLC, we have a team of skilled financial advisors to assist with all of your financial needs. If your current advisor is falling short of your expectations, we encourage you to reach out to set up an appointment with our team. Schedule a consultation today or calling (407) 585-0235, emailing gj@jacksonwm.com, or booking online.
About George
George P. Jackson is the CEO and CIO of Jackson Wealth Management, LLC, based in Lake Mary, Florida. With over 33 years of experience in the financial services industry, George is passionate about making a meaningful difference in his clients’ lives through comprehensive, integrated wealth management. He specializes in helping clients make confident financial decisions by serving as their trusted “one-stop shop” for anything money related, from investments and retirement planning to taxes and estate strategies.
George obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration as well as his Master of Business Administration (with an emphasis in quantitative analysis) from the University of Cincinnati. His designations include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, Chartered Market Technician®, Chartered Life Underwriter®, and Chartered Financial Consultant®. Outside the office, he enjoys playing tennis, flying airplanes, traveling, spending time with his family, and anything to do with the ocean. To learn more about George, connect with him on LinkedIn.
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