Best North Carolina Financial Planners

Finding the right financial planner is crucial for achieving your financial goals. Whether you’re looking to manage your investments, plan for retirement, or navigate complex tax issues, North Carolina offers a range of top-tier financial advisors to suit your needs. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to look for in a financial planner, highlight some of the best in North Carolina, and provide insights from customer reviews.

What to Look for in a Financial Planner

Credentials and Qualifications

When selecting a financial planner, credentials are key. Look for advisors who hold Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designations. These credentials ensure that the advisor has undergone rigorous training and adheres to ethical standards. Additionally, consider their educational background and any other professional certifications they might hold.

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Fee Structure

Financial planners can charge in various ways: fee-only, fee-based, or commission-based. Fee-only planners charge a flat rate or hourly fee and do not earn commissions from selling financial products, which can reduce potential conflicts of interest. Fee-based planners may charge a fee but also earn commissions. Understanding how your advisor is compensated is crucial to ensure their interests align with yours.

Services Offered

Different financial planners specialize in different areas. Some might focus on investment management, while others provide comprehensive financial planning, which includes estate planning, retirement planning, and tax strategy. Ensure the advisor you choose offers services that match your specific needs.

Experience and Track Record

Experience matters. Look for advisors who have been in the industry for several years and have a proven track record of helping clients achieve their financial goals. Reviews and testimonials can provide insight into an advisor’s effectiveness and client satisfaction.

Personal Fit

Your financial planner will be your partner in managing your financial future, so it’s essential to find someone you trust and feel comfortable with. They should be willing to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain complex financial concepts in a way that makes sense to you.

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Regulatory Record

Check the advisor’s regulatory record for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This information is usually available on the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) website or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) BrokerCheck.

Top Financial Planners in North Carolina

1. Altrius Capital Management, Inc.

Location: 1323 Commerce Drive, New Bern, NC 28562
Contact: Not disclosed
AUM: $510,000,000
Minimum Investment: $500,000
Fee Structure: Fee-Only
Website: Altrius Capital Management

Altrius Capital Management, Inc. stands out with over 27 years of experience and a fee-only structure that aligns their interests with those of their clients. Their services include comprehensive financial planning and investment management, focusing on high-net-worth individuals. Clients appreciate their transparent fee structure and personalized approach to financial planning.

2. Edelman Financial Engines, LLC

Location: 4700 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 275, Raleigh, NC 27609
Contact: Not disclosed
AUM: $205,600,000,000
Fee Structure: Fee-Based
Website: Edelman Financial Engines

Edelman Financial Engines is renowned for its extensive reach and comprehensive services. They offer personalized financial planning, investment management, and retirement planning. Their significant assets under management reflect their broad client base and trust within the industry. They are well-regarded for their educational resources and commitment to client success.

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3. Alpha Financial Advisors, LLC

Location: 11325 N Community House Road, Suite 410, Charlotte, NC 28277-0524
Contact: 704-716-1100
AUM: $249,566,232
Minimum Investment: $750,000
Fee Structure: Percentage of AUM, Fixed Fees
Website: Alpha Financial Advisors

Alpha Financial Advisors specialize in serving high-net-worth investors, requiring a minimum account balance of $750,000. They offer diversified investment strategies focusing on global markets, which helps mitigate risks associated with single-market investments. Their personalized service and strategic investment approach are highly valued by their clients.

4. Veratis Advisors, Inc.

Location: 1400 Crescent Green, Suite 110, Cary, NC 27518-8118
Contact: 919-460-8875
AUM: $3,981,673,216
Minimum Investment: $1,000,000
Fee Structure: Percentage of AUM, Hourly Charges, Fixed Fees
Website: Veratis Advisors

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Veratis Advisors, Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of financial planning services tailored to high-net-worth individuals. Their disciplined investment approach combines qualitative and quantitative analysis to ensure robust portfolio management. Clients appreciate their transparency, expertise, and the breadth of their advisory services.

5. Parsec Financial

Location: 6 Wall Street, Asheville, NC 28803
Contact: (828) 255-0271
AUM: $3,500,685,568
Minimum Investment: No set minimum
Fee Structure: Fee-Only
Website: Parsec Financial

Parsec Financial is known for its tax-efficient investment strategies and focus on high-quality companies. They have a clean regulatory record, which underscores their commitment to ethical practices. Clients value their detailed and client-centric approach to financial planning and investment management.

6. Carolina Wealth Partners

Location: 50101 Governors Drive, Suite 280, Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Contact: (888) 817-5410
AUM: Not disclosed
Fee Structure: Not disclosed
Website: Carolina Wealth Partners

Carolina Wealth Partners prides itself on independence, education, and shared responsibility. They offer a range of services including retirement planning, tax planning, and estate planning. Their personalized and proactive approach helps clients feel secure and informed about their financial futures.

Highlighting Customer Reviews

Altrius Capital Management, Inc.

Clients of Altrius Capital Management appreciate the personalized service and transparent fee structure. One client mentioned, “Altrius has consistently provided sound financial advice and helped us achieve our investment goals with a clear and straightforward approach.” This sentiment is echoed in many reviews, highlighting their commitment to client success.

Edelman Financial Engines, LLC

Edelman Financial Engines receives high praise for their comprehensive services and educational resources. A review states, “The advisors at Edelman are knowledgeable and always take the time to explain complex financial concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. Their personalized approach has been invaluable to my financial planning.”

Alpha Financial Advisors, LLC

Alpha Financial Advisors are commended for their strategic investment strategies and client focus. One review notes, “Alpha Financial has helped me diversify my portfolio and reduce risk. Their global investment approach is exactly what I needed to feel secure about my financial future.”

Veratis Advisors, Inc.

Clients of Veratis Advisors appreciate their disciplined and transparent approach to financial planning. A client review states, “Veratis Advisors has been instrumental in managing my portfolio and providing clear, actionable financial advice. Their expertise and commitment to transparency make them a trusted partner.”

Parsec Financial

Parsec Financial is praised for their tax-efficient strategies and high-quality investment options. One review mentions, “Parsec Financial’s focus on tax efficiency has significantly improved my investment returns. Their team is knowledgeable and always available to address my concerns.”

Carolina Wealth Partners

Carolina Wealth Partners receives positive feedback for their personalized and proactive service. A client review highlights, “The advisors at Carolina Wealth Partners are truly dedicated to their clients’ success. Their proactive approach and commitment to education have made a significant difference in my financial planning.”

Contact Information and Useful Details