Why Working with a CFP® and Fee-Only Advisor Matters More Than Ever

In today’s fast-paced and often confusing financial landscape, finding a trustworthy and competent financial advisor is more important than ever. A Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) stands out as a symbol of expertise, ethics, and dedication to clients' best interests. As of January 2025, there are only about 103,000 CFP® professionals in the United States—a figure that represents just one-third of all financial advisors nationwide, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. I am proud to count myself among this distinguished group.

Earning the CFP® designation is no small feat. It requires rigorous education, years of experience, and a commitment to ongoing training. More importantly, CFP® professionals must adhere to a strict code of ethics and put their clients' interests first—always.

Even more exclusive is membership in the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), the country’s leading organization of fee-only financial planners. Only about 4.5% of CFP® professionals are NAPFA members, and I am honored to be part of this elite group. NAPFA members commit to working exclusively in a fee-only capacity, meaning we don’t accept commissions or other incentives that could bias our advice.

Understanding the Fee-Only Difference

Fee-Only Advisors are Fiduciaries who are legally and ethically bound to act in your best interest at all times. Not all advisors are held to that standard. When choosing a financial advisor, how they’re compensated can significantly impact the quality and objectivity of the advice you receive. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Fee-Only Advisors: These professionals are paid solely by their clients through hourly fees, flat rates, or a percentage of assets under management. They do not receive commissions from financial product sales, which minimizes conflicts of interest and ensures advice is always aligned with clients' goals.

• Commission-Based or Fee-Based Advisors: These advisors may receive commissions from selling insurance, annuities, or investment products—or a combination of fees and commissions. This model can create incentives to recommend products that may not be in your best interest.

  
  

Our Commitment at Financial Life Advisors

At Financial Life Advisors, we proudly operate as a fee-only firm. Our approach goes beyond traditional financial planning—we also assist with implementing estate plans, optimizing investment strategies, and designing personalized tax plans to help lower your lifetime income tax bill.

If you or a loved one is looking to reduce long-term tax burdens, ensure a smooth transfer of wealth to heirs, or create a more efficient investment strategy, we would love to help.

Let’s build a financial plan that is designed to help you live the life you want to live.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation.

Josh Hussong CFP®