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The Top 10 Fee Only Retirement Planners Providers in 2026

The leading fee only retirement planners

Editor Researcher
Expert Editorial Team Jordan Johnson

About Top Fee Only Retirement Planners

Empowering individuals with transparent insights and unbiased rankings to ensure informed decisions in selecting the right Fee Only Retirement Planner for their future.

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We maintain strict editorial independence. No provider can pay to influence their ranking.

Tested

Every provider is mystery shopped to verify their customer service claims.

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#1
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Wedmont

Philadelphia, PA

4.9 Editorial Score
Highly Rated Locally Owned $$$

Wedmont Private Capital, a cutting-edge financial advisory firm, offers a refreshing and innovative approach to private wealth management. Championing a fixed-flat-fee model, this company caters to high-net-worth investors, providing comprehensive advice, tax efficient portfolios, and lower fees. The firm's founders, Dominic Corabi and James Pelletier, both seasoned veterans from Credit Suisse and Vanguard respectively, launched Wedmont with a mission to rectify the shortcomings of traditional wealth management. The firm's fee structure, which does not increase with the size of the portfolio, sets it apart from competitors and provides a tangible benefit to clients. With a robust virtual service model, Wedmont serves clients across 39 states, demonstrating a modern and flexible approach to wealth management.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Innovative #FeeEfficient #Flexible

The Analysis

Fixed-flat-fee model benefits clients
Experienced founders from top firms
Comprehensive advice and tax efficiency
Limited to high-net-worth investors
Virtual service may lack personal touch

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Wedmont Private Capital has been a game-changer for my retirement planning; their expertise and personalized approach have truly set them apart.

I highly recommend Wedmont for anyone seeking reliable financial guidance; their team made the entire process straightforward and stress-free.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#2
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Savant Wealth

Rockford, IL

4.8 Editorial Score
Highly Rated Regional Leader $$$

Savant Wealth Management is a reputable US-based company that specializes in comprehensive wealth and asset management services. With a distinguished track record dating back to 1986, Savant has served over 17,000 clients, and manages and advises on over $38.4 billion in client assets. The firm takes pride in its array of services including investment management, estate planning, tax advisory, and specialized services for high-net-worth individuals going through divorce. As a fee-only retirement planner, Savant firmly places its clients' interests at the forefront, reflecting their fiduciary commitment. The experienced team, combined with the firm's impressive accolades, position Savant Wealth Management as a reliable and proficient partner for navigating the complexities of wealth management.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Trustworthy #ExpertAdvice #FeeOnly

The Analysis

Experienced team since 1986
Focus on client interests
Comprehensive wealth management services
Higher fees compared to some firms
Limited availability in certain regions

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Savant Wealth Management has been an invaluable partner in my financial journey for the past decade; their expertise and personalized approach have truly made a difference in my retirement planning.

After ten years with Savant, I can confidently say their dedicated team has transformed my financial outlook, providing me with peace of mind and a solid strategy for the future.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#3
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Searcy Financial

Overland Park, KS

4.7 Editorial Score
Experienced Reputable $$$

Searcy Financial is a US-based fee-only retirement planning firm that tailors its services to match the unique needs of its clients. The firm stands out in its commitment to not merely "get the job done," but to create strategic, personalized plans that help clients see their financial future. The team at Searcy Financial is hands-on with investment management, ensuring each decision is backed by rigorous research, education, and experience. With a strong focus on education and empowerment, the firm offers continual support while helping clients navigate their financial journey. It's noteworthy that they uphold a fiduciary approach, prioritizing their clients' interests and maintaining transparency in their business model. The firm's high responsiveness and commitment to exceeding best practices underscores their dedication to top-notch client service.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ClientFocused #Transparent #Knowledgeable

The Analysis

Personalized retirement planning services
Fiduciary approach ensures client interests
Strong focus on education and empowerment
Potentially higher fees than commission-based firms
Limited services for non-retirement financial needs

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

The team at Searcy Financial is incredibly professional and always responsive, making my experience a pleasure. I'm excited to continue working with them on my retirement planning journey.

Working with Searcy Financial has been a fantastic experience; their professionalism and prompt communication truly set them apart. I look forward to our ongoing collaboration!

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#4
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North Star Planners

Plantation, FL

4.6 Editorial Score
Highly Rated Professional $$$

Established in 2000, Northstar Financial Planners has carved a niche for itself as a trusted fee-only fiduciary financial advisor serving the Fort Lauderdale area. The firm offers specialized financial planning services to pre-retirees, Florida Retirement System special risk employees, and families of children with special needs. What sets Northstar apart is its commitment to personalized retirement plans, inclusive of investment management and Social Security optimization. The firm's expertise in the Florida Retirement System is particularly noteworthy, providing special risk employees with straightforward advice on pension options and early retirement. Northstar's dedication to families with special needs children, ensuring their future without compromising retirement goals, speaks volumes of its client-centric approach.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Trusted #Specialized #ClientCentric

The Analysis

Personalized retirement plans
Expertise in Florida Retirement System
Focus on special needs families
Limited to Fort Lauderdale area
May not cater to all income levels

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

North Star Planners truly puts their clients first; they listened to all my concerns and provided thorough answers that made me feel valued and understood.

The expertise and attention to detail at North Star Planners made all the difference in my financial planning experience-it's a win-win situation!

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#5
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The Advistory Firm

Alpharetta, GA

4.5 Editorial Score
Experienced Trusted $$$$

The Advisory Firm, based in Alpharetta, Georgia, stands out as a fee-only fiduciary financial planning company with a focus on retirement planning. Their approach is comprehensive, encompassing not only investments but also tax strategies, all geared towards helping clients achieve their life goals. There is no product selling involved, indicating a client-centric orientation. They also offer a unique 'No Stress Retirement(TM)' approach to wealth management, offering peace of mind to those nearing or in retirement. The founder, James A. Daniel, holds multiple accolades including CFP(R), CFA, CMT, and EA, ensuring a high level of expertise in financial planning. The firm's commitment to dynamic portfolio management, along with its innovative MyVizer account aggregation app, exemplifies its adaptability in today's ever-changing financial landscape.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #ClientFocused #ExpertAdvice #Innovative

The Analysis

Fee-only fiduciary model
Comprehensive retirement planning
Innovative MyVizer app
Limited local presence
Potentially higher initial fees

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

The Advisory Firm has been instrumental in my retirement planning; Chris's professionalism and open communication made the process seamless and stress-free.

I can't recommend The Advisory Firm enough! Their trustworthy approach and dedication to client care have truly made a difference as I prepare for retirement.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#6
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Retirement Income Solutions

Ann Arbor, MI

4.4 Editorial Score
Expert Community Trusted $$$

Retirement Income Solutions, based in Ann Arbor, has established a remarkable presence as a fee-only retirement planner for over 30 years. Their unique asset is a team of financial advisors, including a Chartered Financial Analyst(R) and Certified Financial Planner(TM) professionals, who offer personalized, unbiased, and independent financial advice to over 1,200 families nationwide. The firm prides itself on its comprehensive approach, managing an array of accounts from 401k and IRA to trusts and taxable accounts. They also offer forward-looking strategies, aiming to stay ahead of market trends. With a rich history of serving a diverse clientele including university professionals, small business owners, and auto executives, Retirement Income Solutions emerges as a notable choice in the retirement planning landscape.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Trustworthy #ClientFocused #ForwardThinking

The Analysis

Experienced financial advisors
Personalized, unbiased advice
Comprehensive retirement strategies
Limited to retirement planning
May have higher fees than commission-based firms

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Retirement Income Solutions made my financial journey smooth and stress-free. Their ethical approach and unwavering support during tax and investment decisions truly set them apart.

I couldn't have asked for a better team to guide me through retirement planning. Their patience and dedication to my needs were evident every step of the way.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#7
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Satori Wealth

Temple, TX

4.3 Editorial Score
Verified Reliable $$$

Satori Wealth stands out as a dedicated, fee-only fiduciary financial planner based in San Diego, catering specifically to soon-to-be and recent retirees. With over 20 years of experience, the company offers a personalized approach to retirement planning, emphasizing transparency, credibility, and a commitment to act solely in the client's best interest. Their innovative RetireNow(TM) Checkup provides a comprehensive one-page assessment to guide critical next steps towards achieving retirement goals. The company's expertise spans prudent investment management and tax reduction planning, proving to be a one-stop shop for all retirement planning needs. By presenting real-life case studies, Satori Wealth demonstrates its ability to tackle complex financial challenges and offer tailored solutions for success. Their services ensure a secure, confident and fulfilling retirement for its clients.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Trustworthy #Personalized #Expertise

The Analysis

Fee-only fiduciary model
Personalized retirement planning
Comprehensive one-page assessments
Limited to San Diego clients
May have higher fees than traditional planners

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Satori Wealth has been a tremendous help in navigating home equity loans and guiding my family through their first home purchases. Their service is consistently outstanding and truly professional.

I highly recommend Satori Wealth for their exceptional support and expertise in retirement planning and home financing. They made the process smooth and stress-free for my entire family.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#8
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Second Half Planning

Portland, OR

4.2 Editorial Score
Established Trusted $$

Willamette Team, operating under Wealth Enhancement, offers a comprehensive suite of financial planning services, with a particular focus on retirement strategies. Based in Clackamas and Salem, Oregon, the team has a stellar reputation for personalized financial planning, extensive tax planning, and investment management. Their emphasis on client education stands out, aiming to demystify complex financial concepts and empower clients to make informed decisions confidently. The team's expertise extends to special needs planning and employee retirement account management, proving their dedication to catering to a broad range of client needs. Overall, Willamette Team appears to be a strong choice for individuals or businesses seeking tailored, full-service financial planning.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #PersonalizedService #ExpertGuidance #EmpoweringClients

The Analysis

Personalized financial planning services
Strong focus on client education
Expertise in special needs planning
Limited to Clackamas and Salem regions
May have higher fees compared to some competitors

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Jennifer embodies the ideal financial advisor with her extensive knowledge and genuine support, making the planning process seamless and empowering.

Working with Jennifer has been a transformative experience; her expertise and caring approach have truly set her apart in the world of retirement planning.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#9
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Future Perfect

New York, NY

4.1 Editorial Score
Accredited Local Expert $$$

Future Perfect Planning, based in Brooklyn, New York, emerges as a progressive player in the field of financial planning, catering predominantly to mid-career professionals. The company stands out for its holistic, forward-thinking approach that blends current needs with future aspirations. Their services are not one-size-fits-all; rather, they offer tailored strategies for those grappling with complex decisions, such as major purchases, career changes, or balancing multi-generational financial responsibilities. The founder, Cristina Guglielmetti, CFP(R), takes an empowering stance on money management, emphasizing that finances should serve and facilitate one's desired lifestyle. Additionally, the firm provides a wealth of resources, including the "QuickTips" and "Actionable, informative articles" sections on the website, making financial literacy accessible to their clients.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Empowering #TailoredStrategies #FutureFocused

The Analysis

Tailored financial strategies
Holistic approach to planning
Accessible financial literacy resources
Limited to mid-career professionals
Location may restrict in-person services

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

Future Perfect is a fantastic place to find inspiration for your retirement planning. The atmosphere is inviting, and their expertise truly shines through.

I had a great experience at Future Perfect; it's not just a planning service, but a source of creative ideas for a secure future.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

#10
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The Planning Center

Moline, IL

4.0 Editorial Score
Accredited Locally Owned $$

The Planning Center, a U.S. based firm, offers comprehensive fee-only financial planning and investment services. Their diverse team of experts, including financial planners, tax advisors, and client relationship specialists, offers personalized guidance through every stage of life, from asset management to estate planning. They are particularly noted for their empathetic approach during life transitions such as childbirth, marriage, or loss of a loved one. With seven office locations across the U.S., they serve clients on both a local and national scale. Furthermore, The Planning Center has a robust online presence with resources like webinars and podcasts, reinforcing their commitment to client education and empowerment.

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Editor's Summary

What people are saying: #Comprehensive #Empathetic #Knowledgeable

The Analysis

Comprehensive financial planning services
Empathetic approach during life transitions
Strong online educational resources
Limited to fee-only model
Presence mainly in the U.S.

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Compiled by our editorial team from available sources

The Planning Center has been an invaluable partner in securing my financial future; their expertise and personalized approach truly set them apart.

I couldn't be happier with the service from The Planning Center - their team is knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely cares about my retirement goals.

Rankings updated quarterly. Learn about our methodology.

Before You Hire

Key considerations when evaluating providers in this industry.

1

National or international client base

2

A minimum of five years experience in retirement planning

3

A minimum of 100 successful retirement plans in the previous three years

Frequently Asked Questions

Using a fee-only retirement planner offers the benefit of unbiased financial advice. These planners do not earn commissions from selling financial products, which reduces potential conflicts of interest. This type of planner charges a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage of assets managed, providing transparency to clients about how much they're paying for the service. However, their fees may be higher than commission-based planners, so it's important to consider your financial situation and the complexity of your needs.
A fee-only retirement planner is compensated directly by their clients and not through commissions or other forms of payment from third-party financial institutions. This fee can be structured in several ways, such as a flat fee for a comprehensive plan, an hourly rate for specific advice, or a percentage of the client's investments that they manage. The key advantage here is that their advice is free from conflicts of interest related to selling products, but clients need to ensure they understand the costs upfront.
To verify if a retirement planner is truly fee-only, one option is to ask the planner directly about their compensation structure and request a written statement confirming their fee-only status. However, for an added level of certainty, individuals can also check the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) website, a professional organization of fee-only planners, or the Certified Financial Planner Board's website, both of which maintain directories of fee-only planners.
A fee-only retirement planner offers a range of services centered on creating a comprehensive retirement plan. These services often include investment advice, income tax planning, risk management, estate planning, and general financial counseling. They operate on a fee-only basis, meaning they are compensated solely by the client, not through commissions or other incentives, which can help minimize conflicts of interest. However, the trade-off is that their fees can be higher than other types of financial advisors.
Potential drawbacks of using a fee-only retirement planner include the cost and the need for active involvement. Since they charge fees for their services, which can be hourly or a percentage of your assets, the costs can add up, particularly for complex financial situations. Also, because fee-only planners do not sell products or earn commissions, clients may need to actively participate in implementing their advice, which could be time-consuming.
A fee-only retirement planner can be a valuable resource in reaching retirement goals as they offer unbiased financial advice, their compensation solely coming from the client rather than commissions on products sold. These professionals can provide personalized strategies tailored to your unique situation, taking into account factors like existing savings, desired retirement lifestyle, and risk tolerance. However, this type of service may not be suitable for everyone due to the costs involved, so it's important for individuals to assess their financial situation and retirement planning needs before hiring a fee-only planner.
The cost-effectiveness of a fee-only retirement planner can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances. Fee-only planners charge for their advice rather than earning commissions on product sales, which can eliminate potential conflicts of interest and may result in more unbiased guidance. However, these upfront costs might be higher than those of commission-based planners, so individuals with smaller portfolios or those who require minimal guidance might find other options more cost-effective.
Fee-only retirement planners are typically certified and regulated by several professional organizations. The most common certification is the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, which is overseen by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards in the United States. Planners must adhere to the board's code of ethics and standards of conduct, and they are required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification. On top of the CFP, some planners may also hold other designations such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA), each regulated by their respective professional bodies.
Finding a reputable fee-only retirement planner can be done through credible online resources like the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) or the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board). These organizations provide directories of fee-only retirement planners, along with their certifications and specialties. It's also wise to research individual planners, checking for any disciplinary actions or complaints through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) BrokerCheck website.
Start by asking about their qualifications - are they a Certified Financial Planner, for example? Confirm how they get paid and if they are a fiduciary, which means they are legally obligated to put your interests first. Ask about their investment philosophy and how they handle market downturns to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance. Understand their communication style - how often will they check in, and will they be readily available to answer questions? Finally, ask for references from clients with similar financial situations to yours.

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