SmartAsset
![]() |
|
||
Kevin L. Gibson CPA
![]() |
|
|
|
Equitable Advisors
![]() |
|
|
|
The Financial Guys
![]() |
|
|
Finding a financial planner in Buffalo can be a time-consuming process. Research several advisors in the Buffalo area, and compare their certifications, reputation and approach to wealth management before deciding which one is a good fit.
After narrowing your choices, schedule a free consultation or two to get more information about an advisor’s fees, financial philosophy and overall personality. The New York state attorney general recommends having the advisor fill out a form with licensing information and verifying it with the proper agency. By thoroughly vetting the financial planner, you ensure a good fit and avoid common scams.
There are four ways financial advisors determine their fees. The most common fee structure is charging a percentage of the managed assets. On average, this fee is around 1%. An advisor might also charge by the hour or charge a flat rate for individual services. For example, if you want a financial plan drafted, an advisor might charge a flat fee ranging from $1,500 to $2,500.
Commission-based services are the fourth type of fee structure. This option is most commonly used by investment advisors. This payment style has the potential for abuse or conflict of interest. Registered investment advisors are required to provide a relationship summary, which explains fees and costs and conflicts of interest, according to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Financial advising encompasses a variety of services. Buffalo residents have the opportunity to customize services to suit their needs, whether they need investment advice or retirement planning. The following are common financial services offered by advisors in Buffalo.
How much do I need to retire?
The general rule is you should have enough to cover 80% of your pre-retirement income per year. Financial advisors help Buffalo residents plan for retirement if they’re still working, or optimize their savings if they’re already retired.
What is a fiduciary?
A fiduciary is someone who manages money and/or property on behalf of somebody else. Fiduciaries, including investment advisors, are required by law to make decisions in their clients’ best interests and not their own.
How do I buy a stock?
Buy stocks online yourself, or work with a financial advisor to build a portfolio. These experienced professionals can purchase and monitor stocks for you.
What is asset management?
Asset management is the professional servicing of investments. Whether you’re establishing a new portfolio or looking to maximize existing assets, an asset manager helps you achieve investing goals.
Are wealth management fees worth it?
Ideally, a wealth management firm obtains a return on investment on a client’s assets to the point that the fees are more than covered. Discuss the cost of wealth management services compared with returns during your initial consultation.
SmartAsset |
||
SmartAsset offers free financial advice, tools and resources to help Buffalo residents take control of their finances. The company’s areas of focus include lending, investing, credit cards and retirement. SmartAsset also matches users with up to three local advisors for their personalized needs. SmartAsset’s other free tools include a mortgage calculator and tax calculator. |
![]() |
Learn More |
Kevin L. Gibson CPA |
||
Kevin L. Gibson CPA is an accounting firm based in West Seneca. Specialties include taxes, business accounting and financial planning, with services that can be tailored to a client’s needs. This firm also offers the services of an enrolled agent, who represents clients before the IRS. The company is located at 220 Orchard Park Road, West Seneca, NY 14224. |
![]() |
|
Equitable Advisors |
||
As part of its financial planning services, Equitable Advisors helps clients with investments, life insurance, retirement planning and education savings. Its website features a learning center that includes helpful resources on subjects like retirement, life insurance, annuities and more. The company is located at 350 Essjay Road, Ste. 300, Williamsville, NY 14221. |
![]() |
|
The Financial Guys |
||
The Financial Guys is an independent wealth management firm that provides an extensive variety of financial services to customers throughout Western New York. The company offers a free initial consultation to walk prospective clients through a goal-focused approach to finances. The Financial Guys’ services are customizable, and the company also offers focused services, like women’s financial wellness and corporate planning. The company is located at 305 Spindrift Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221. |
![]() |