Choosing a financial advisor is about more than finding someone to manage your investments. Over time, that person may help you make decisions about retirement, taxes, estate planning, insurance, and family wealth here in New Hampshire.

A first meeting should give you a clear sense of how the advisor works, how they are paid, and whether the relationship can support your whole financial life. These 10 questions give you a script for that conversation. A good advisor will welcome every one.

1. Are you a fiduciary 100% of the time?

A fiduciary is required to put your interests first when providing financial advice. Ask whether that standard applies at all times.

2. Are you a CFP® professional?

“Financial advisor” is a broad title. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals must meet education, examination, experience, and ethics requirements and act as fiduciaries when providing financial advice.

3. Will you put it in writing?

Ask for documents explaining the firm’s services, fees, potential conflicts, and who will advise you. A verbal promise is reassuring, but written commitments are better.

4. How do you get paid?

Ask how the advisor and firm are compensated. Terms like “fee-only” and “fee-based” can represent different arrangements, so know who pays them and why.

5. Do you receive commissions or third-party compensation?

Ask about commissions, referral fees, insurance compensation, revenue-sharing payments, or other third-party payments. You deserve to know where those incentives exist.

6. What is my all-in cost?

The advisory fee may not be the whole number. Investments can carry additional expenses. Ask for the estimated total cost as both a percentage and a dollar amount based on your portfolio.

7. Who manages my portfolio day to day?

The person sitting across from you may not make investment decisions. Ask who manages the portfolio and whether that work is handled in-house or outsourced.

8. What happens if you retire, leave, or sell the firm?

The question may feel uncomfortable. Ask anyway. Financial plans can span decades, so understand the firm’s succession plan and what happens if your advisor is no longer there.

9. What is included beyond investment management?

Go beyond your portfolio and determine whether the relationship includes retirement planning, tax planning, estate and legacy coordination, insurance review, cash flow, charitable giving, and collaboration with your CPA or attorney. New Hampshire has a unique tax landscape, so make sure your plan reflects where you actually live.

10. What will our relationship look like over the year?

Find out how often you will meet, what those conversations cover, who is available between reviews, and whether the advisor reaches out proactively.

Ask the questions before you make the decision

A first meeting isn’t only a chance for an advisor to learn about you. It’s also your chance to learn about them. Pay attention to how clearly they explain their process, fees, and the role they would play in your financial life.

The goal isn’t to walk away impressed; it’s to walk away informed. When you understand exactly what you’re being offered, you’re better positioned to compare your options and choose with confidence.

Liana Poodiack and Travis Poodiack are co-founders of Birch Financial Group in Keene.