How to Choose a Fee-Only Financial Advisor in Indianapolis 

Choosing a financial advisor is a decision that can shape your financial future. For high-net-worth individuals and families in Indianapolis, the process is not just about finding a service provider. It’s important to select a professional you can trust with your goals, your values, and your legacy. 

While there are many types of financial professionals, fee-only fiduciary advisors are known for their objectivity and client-first approach. Understanding what sets them apart and how to evaluate your options is an essential part of making a confident decision. 

Understanding the Value of a Fee-Only Financial Planner in Indianapolis 

Not all financial advisors operate under the same standards or compensation models. Fee-only financial planners are compensated solely by their clients. They do not receive commissions or incentives for recommending specific products. This structure helps reduce conflicts of interest and promotes advice that is based on what is best for the client. 

In contrast, commission-based financial advisors may earn income from selling mutual funds, annuities, or insurance products. This model introduces a potential bias. Some financial advisors use a hybrid model, charging fees but still earning product-based commissions. Clarity about compensation helps you know who your financial advisor is truly working for. 

Fee-only advisors who operate under a fiduciary standard are legally and ethically required to act in your best interests. This duty extends to all aspects of the financial planning relationship and helps ensure recommendations are objective and aligned with your goals. 

Key Qualities to Look for in a Financial Advisor 

Your search for a financial advisor in Indianapolis should start with identifying what matters most to you. Are you focused on retirement planning, managing complex assets, reducing tax exposure, or creating an estate strategy? With those goals in mind, here are some attributes to prioritize: 

• Credentials: Look for a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^® professional, CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA^® (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CDFA^® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst), depending on your needs. 

• Fee structure: Confirm the advisor is fee-only. Ask how fees are calculated and whether they are flat-fee, hourly, or asset-based. 

• Fiduciary standard: Ask whether they are fiduciaries at all times, and across all accounts and services. 

• Experience: Seek out advisors with experience serving clients like you in terms of complexity, net worth, and financial needs. 

• Services offered: Evaluate whether the advisor integrates investment, tax, and estate planning into a comprehensive plan. 

• Communication and continuity: Understand how often you will meet, how accessible the advisor is, and what happens if your advisor leaves or retires. 

• Transparency: Clear explanations of services, strategies, and costs should be standard, not a bonus. 

Questions To Ask During Your First Meeting 

A discovery meeting is your opportunity to evaluate not only qualifications but also how the advisor thinks and communicates. Consider asking: 

• Are you a fiduciary in all aspects of your practice? 

• How do you charge for services, and what is included in your fee? 

• Do you receive any outside compensation or revenue sharing? 

• Who are your typical clients, and how do you help them? 

• Can you describe your investment philosophy? 

• How do you coordinate tax and estate planning? 

• What happens to my plan if my advisor transitions or retires? 

• Can I see a sample financial plan? 

How a financial advisor answers these questions tells you not only about their services but also about their level of transparency and alignment with your values. 

Why Local Knowledge Matters When Choosing a Financial Advisor in Indianapolis 

Each state has its own legal and tax considerations, and Indiana is no exception. A financial advisor with in-state experience can help you make informed decisions about topics like inheritance taxes, property ownership, and succession planning for Indiana-based businesses. 

Financial advisors who work locally often have strong working relationships with professionals such as estate attorneys, CPAs, and real estate consultants. These connections can make it easier to align different parts of your financial picture and get support when your situation becomes more complex. 

Why Savant Wealth Management is Different 

At Savant Wealth Management, we serve individuals and families in Indianapolis using a fiduciary, fee-only model. Our fiduciary advisors are compensated solely by our clients. This structure supports objective advice without product incentives or sales pressure. 

We begin each relationship with a thoughtful discovery process to understand your values, financial situation, and priorities. From there, we create a detailed plan that brings together investment strategy, tax planning, retirement preparation, and estate coordination. 

Our team includes professionals with a range of backgrounds and credentials. We work together to help bring clarity to complex financial situations. If you are navigating a business transition, planning for retirement, or building a multi-generational legacy, our goal is to simplify the process and help you develop strategies to manage your financial goals. 

Start Your Financial Advisor Search With Confidence 

Choosing a financial advisor is a decision that deserves careful thought and a clear understanding of your goals. For high-net-worth individuals and families in Indianapolis, working with a fee-only fiduciary can provide the transparency, trust, and alignment needed to build lasting financial confidence. 

Savant Wealth Management brings a disciplined, client-centered approach backed by decades of experience. Our team offers personalized guidance built on a foundation of objective advice, comprehensive planning, and an unwavering commitment to your best interests. 

If you’re seeking a financial partner who will take the time to understand your full financial picture and support your long-term vision, we invite you to schedule an introductory call with our Indianapolis team today. 

This is intended for informational purposes only. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this document serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from Savant. Please consult your investment professional regarding your unique situation.