Benzinga carefully researched top financial advisor firms in North Carolina to determine which are the best in transparency, reputation and pricing. Compare and contrast the offerings of the following financial advisors.
Best for Insurance and Annuities: Waddell & Reed Inc.
Waddell & Reed is one of the oldest investing firms in the United States and has more than 400 offices throughout the country. This tried-and-true investing firm, a subsidiary of publicly traded Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc. (NYSE: WDR) delivers:
- Financial planning
- Retirement planning
- Education funding
- And more!
Within those categories are advice about mutual funds, advisory programs, general securities, insurance and annuities, banking and cash solutions and gifting or giving strategies.
Phone number
Best for Client Portal: Financial Symmetry Inc.
Financial Symmetry is an employee-owned financial advisory firm in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Financial Symmetry charges on a fee-only basis. Financial Symmetry’s financial advisors put your goals first:
- Financial planning
- Investment management
- Retirement planning
- Tax planning
- Social Security analysis
- College planning
- 401(k) planning
- Estate planning
Any item on your financial to-do list can be addressed on Financial Symmetry’s unique high-tech client portal. Financial Symmetry’s portal keeps tabs on your net worth, totals up your spending against your future targets and holds all your documents. Its portal gives you access to your accounts whenever you want it.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
Address
1511 SUNDAY DR SUITE 300RALEIGH NC, 27607
Phone number
919-851-8200
Best for Comprehensive Management: Lewis Financial Management LLC
Thirty-year veteran Lewis Financial Management offers 2 tiers of financial management: An initial financial advisory consultation and comprehensive financial planning.
Your first meeting with Lewis Financial Management LLC starts with an initial financial advisory consultation. You’ll get advice right away, whether you need help with cash management, investments, retirement planning or divorce advice.
On the other hand, you might need more than just a one-off consultation. Opt for comprehensive financial planning to hash out long-term objectives and strategy execution directed at your goals.
Best for Retirement Planning: Spartan Planning
Retirement planning can be overwhelming. How much do you put into your IRA? How much risk do you take with your investments? Spartan Planning is a fee-only firm with a focus on retirement planning. Its goal is to minimize investment risks so you can meet your retirement goals whether retirement is a few years or a few decades down the road.
Spartan Planning also sets up online access for your accounts so you know exactly what’s going on. Spartan Planning starts the process with a discovery meeting to learn about your goals and see if it’s a good fit. It prioritizes building a meaningful relationship with each client and has an informative blog to help you stay informed on current financial issues.
Best for Women: Zuraw Financial Advisors
Many women have unique financial needs, whether it’s due to divorce or being raised with certain expectations around making and managing money. Zuraw Financial Advisors believes in empowering women. It hosts a blog on women and divorce so women can make informed decisions about money.
Zuraw Financial Advisors focuses on helping people build up their assets and pass on those assets to future generations. Zuraw Financial Advisors understands that life and money can get complicated. It’s there to be a resource and to help you develop a plan for financial success.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
- Educational seminars/workshops
Address
806 GREEN VALLEY ROAD SUITE 201GREENSBORO NC, 27408
Phone number
336. 290 7062 EXT 101
Best for High-Net-Worth Individuals: Smith Partners Wealth Management
Smith Partners Wealth Management focuses on the needs of high-net-worth individuals. It’s been offering financial advice on a fee-only basis for almost 30 years. Smith Partners advisors works closely with each client to get to know your fears, concerns and financial history. In addition to financial planning, Smith Partners also offers insurance and risk analysis and collaborates with other advisors like CPAs.
Charitable giving is also important to Smith Partners, and its advisors will work with you to develop an efficient giving plan for charitable giving.
Best for Education: DMJ Wealth Advisors
DMJ Wealth Advisors knows you need to understand the investment and financial decisions you make. A financial advisor can make recommendations but it’s essential to understand how each element of your financial plan works. DMJ offers a wealth of educational resources on its website so you can dig into the issues that matter to you.
Its advisors use a step-by-step approach to planning that starts with your financial goals. Its solutions are tailored to what matters to you.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
Address
703 GREEN VALLEY ROAD SUITE 201GREENSBORO NC, 27408
Phone number
(336) 275-9886
Best for Fee-Only Advising: Triad Financial Advisors
Triad Financial Advisors (TFA) offers a high level of personal service to each client. The company is a fee-only, independent registered investment advisor (RIA) that has a fiduciary duty to act in its clients’ best interests at all times.
Its advisors work with each client to build a life plan that makes sense. All of its advisors are certified financial planners (CFPs) and several hold other designations as well. Triad Financial Advisors also gives back to the community through contributions to nonprofit organizations like the United Way of Greater Greensboro. TFA offers a free consultation so you can learn more about its services and whether it’s a good fit for you.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
- Publication of periodicals or newsletters
Address
5155 PEACHTREE PARKWAY SUITE 3220NORCROSS GA, 30092
Phone number
800-720-4003
Best for High-Value Investors: Alpha Financial Advisors
Alpha Financial is a financial planner that also offers basic consulting services. The minimum account balance required to begin with Alpha is $750,000 worth of AUM. If you have over $5 million in AUM, you’ll pay just 0.125% of your portfolio balance annually in fees.
This can make it one of the top financial advisors in Charlotte for high-value investors. Its primary investing strategy focuses on diversifying your portfolio by investing in global markets. If you want to invest in both developing and established markets, be sure to consider Alpha Financial.
Alpha Financial is a financial planner that also offers basic consulting services. The minimum account balance required to begin with Alpha is $750,000 worth of assets under management. If you have over $5 million in assets under management, you’ll pay just 0.125% of your portfolio balance annually in fees. This can make it one of the top financial advisors for high-value investors. Its primary investing strategy focuses on diversifying your portfolio by investing in global markets. This further lowers the risks associated with a single market when compared to standard asset diversification. If you want to invest in both developing and established markets, be sure to consider Alpha Financial.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- CONSULTING
Address
11325 N COMMUNITY HOUSE RD SUITE #410CHARLOTTE NC, 28277-0524
Phone number
704-716-1100
Best for Web-Based Financial Solutions: Integrated Financial Strategies
Integrated Financial Strategies is a registered investment advisor offering portfolio management, retirement income and financial consulting services. The most unique service offered by Integrated Financial Strategies is its web-based financial planning and consulting service. It provides services from account aggregation to answers to general financial questions through its online portal.
You can also view account statements and track your progress toward your investing goal online. If you’re looking for a convenient way to play a more active role in your investing, Integrated Financial Strategies is one of the best financial advisors for your needs.
Integrated Financial Strategies is a registered investment advisor offering portfolio management, retirement income and financial consulting services. There’s no minimum account balance required to get started with Integrated Financial Strategies. The most unique service offered by Integrated Financial Strategies is its web-based financial planning and consulting service. Integrated Financial Strategies may provide everything from account aggregation to answers to general financial questions through its online portal. You can also view account statements and track your progress toward your investing goal online. If you’re a frequent traveler who’s looking for a convenient way to play a more active role in your investing, Integrated Financial Strategies is one of the best financial advisors for your needs.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
Address
6100 FAIRVIEW ROAD SUITE 230CHARLOTTE NC, 28210
Phone number
704-643-5000
Best for Business Owners: Independent Advisor Alliance
With over 11,000 individual clients and more than $4.7 billion worth of AUM, Independent Advisor Alliance isn’t just a top financial advisor in Charlotte — it’s also one of the largest in the U.S. The minimum balance required to begin with Independent Advisor Alliance is usually $25,000 but may be higher depending on the services you need.
Independent Advisor Alliance offers nearly every type of retirement and investing service you might need. However, most of its unique services center around the needs of business owners. From compliance oversight to family office training, Independent Advisor is a top financial planner for business owners looking for a one-stop financial and corporate advising service.
With over 11,000 individual clients and more than $4.7 billion worth of assets under management, Independent Advisor Alliance isn’t just a top financial advisor in Charlotte — it’s also one of the largest in the U.S. The minimum balance required to begin with Independent Advisor Alliance is usually $25,000 but may be higher depending on the services you need. Independent Advisor Alliance offers nearly every type of retirement and investing service you might need. However, most of its unique services center around the needs of business owners. From compliance oversight to family office training, Independent Advisor is a top financial planner for business owners looking for a one-stop financial and corporate advising service.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
- Publication of periodicals or newsletters
- Educational seminars/workshops
Address
11525 N. COMMUNITY HOUSE RD. STE. 575CHARLOTTE NC, 28277
Phone number
888.430.1555
Best for High-Level of Diversification: Hayden Royal
Hayden Royal is a financial planner in Charlotte offering portfolio management and investment advising services. There is no minimum balance required to work with Hayden Royal — though some higher-end advisors with an asset specialty may introduce their own minimums.
Hayden Royal’s investment strategy primarily focuses on the purchase of mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), 2 types of pooled investment vehicles that bundle many shares of stock and bond together. This allows it to easily diversify your portfolio and invest your money in multiple industries at once.
If you value a high level of diversification in your investing strategy, Hayden Royal might be right for you.
Hayden Royal is a financial planner in Charlotte offering portfolio management and investment advising services. There is no minimum balance required to work with Hayden Royal — though some higher-end advisors with an asset specialty may introduce their own minimums as they please. Hayden Royal’s investment strategy primarily focuses on the purchase of mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), 2 types of pooled investment vehicles that bundle many shares of stock and bond together. This allows it to easily diversify your portfolio and invest your money in multiple industries at once. If you value a high level of diversification in your investing strategy, Hayden Royal might be right for you.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
- Educational seminars/workshops
Address
4201 CONGRESS STREET SUITE 420CHARLOTTE NC, 28209
Phone number
7049190439
Best for Retirement Planning: Hobart Private Capital
Hobart Private Capital is a financial planning and consulting service focused on providing individualized investing plans. Its main investing product is its retirement planning process — though it does offer wealth management and asset protection plans as well. If you’re having trouble growing the balance in your IRA or 401(k), Hobart helps you save money in your 50s and beyond.
Hobart Private Capital uses a 5-step approach to help you get the most personalized retirement plan possible.
At your first meeting, you’ll discuss your goals with your personal financial planner. You’ll examine your current financial situation and see where you are in your retirement preparedness. From there, your team of financial planners will put together a comprehensive investing plan, get your approval and put it into action.
With Hobart you’ll receive regular updates on how your plan is going and how you’re progressing toward retirement.
Hobart Private Capital is a financial planning and consulting service focused on providing individualized investing plans. Its main investing product is its retirement planning process — though it does offer wealth management and asset protection plans as well. The required minimum asset balance is $250,000. Hobart Private Capital uses a 5-step approach to help you get the most personalized retirement plan possible. At your first meeting, you’ll discuss your goals with your personal financial planner. You’ll examine your current financial situation and see where you are in terms of your retirement plan. From there, your team of financial planners will put together a comprehensive investing plan, get your approval and put it into action. You’ll then receive regular updates on how your plan is going and how you’re progressing toward retirement
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
- Publication of periodicals or newsletters
- Educational seminars/workshops
Address
7733 BALLANTYNE COMMONS PARKWAY SUITE 101CHARLOTTE NC, 28277
Phone number
704-553-0123
Best for Retirement: Arbor Investment Advisors
Arbor Investment Advisors is an independent, privately-owned investment management firm that was founded in 1998. Its financial planners specialize in a personalized approach, and the firm can work with high-net-worth individuals.
Fees range from negotiable to up to 1% annually depending on your invested assets. The firm offers services including retirement planning, estate planning, insurance planning and more.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Publication of periodicals or newsletters
- PORTFOLIO MGMT FOUNDATIONS & MONEY PENSION PURCHASE PLAN; STOCK OPTION MONITORING; CONSULTING PURSUANT TO ERISA 404C
Address
300 SOUTH MAIN STREET WINSTON SALEM NC, 27101
Phone number
336-777-1677
Best for Major Life Transitions: Blue Rock Wealth Management
Blue Rock Wealth management has over 15 years of experience in investment management and financial planning. Blue Rock Wealth advisors help clients contribute to their 401(k) and IRA accounts and support education, estate and retirement planning. The firm’s niche is assisting with major life transitions like inheritance distribution, divorce or sale of a business.
Advisors start by asking questions about your finances to learn more about your personal financial situation and goals. You can then choose to opt into wealth management, financial planning or both types of services. Investment fees range from 0.75% to 2.75% annually depending on the type of account.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Hourly charges
- Financial planning services
- Pension consulting services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
Address
524 NORTH TRADE STREET WINSTON SALEM NC, 27101
Phone number
336-723-1220
Best for Long-Term Growth: Salem Investment Counselors
Salem Investment Counselors was founded in 1979 and provides investment management and financial planning services like tax planning, estate planning, cash flow analysis and more. The firm values long-term relationships with clients, and it was ranked the top financial advisory firm in 2019 by CNBC.
Advisors emphasize investing in high-quality companies with proven track records for less risk and increased stability. The firm provides both investment management and financial advice at 1% annually of the value of assets. This fee can be negotiable.
Best for Comprehensive Approach: Sheets Smith Wealth Management
Sheets Smith Wealth Management is an independently owned investment advisor that’s offered wealth management and financial planning services since 1982. Services include retirement planning, estate planning, cash flow analysis, gift planning and more.
The firm’s staff boasts designations including Chartered Financial Analysts® (CFA®), Certified Financial Planners™ (CFP®) and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselors℠ (CRPC®).
The family office division offers unique solutions to high-net-worth families that include wealth transfer, wealth preservation and more. Investment fees can range between 0.5% and 1% annually depending on the value of your assets.
- A percentage of assets under your management
- Fixed fees (other than subscription fees)
- Financial planning services
- Selection of other advisers (including private fund managers)
Address
120 CLUB OAKS COURT SUITE 200WINSTON SALEM NC, 27104-4680
Phone number
336-765-2020
Best for High-Net-Worth Families: Timonier
Timonier is a family-operated investment management and financial planning firm. Its clients include individuals, corporations, trusts and charitable organizations, but the firm’s services are especially beneficial to high-net-worth families. Timonier can help take off the burden of managing the complexities of family wealth.
Advisors take a holistic, multi-generational approach to wealth management. You’ll have support for retirement planning, estate planning, education planning, cash flow analysis and tax planning. Fees range from 0.3% to 1% annually of the total assets under management.
Get the Best Financial Advisor for You
A couple of important to-do items before you land on an advisor:
- Ask friends and family in Raleigh whether they prefer one financial advisor over another.
- Carefully interview a financial advisor in a firm who comes highly recommended. Remember, the first one is free! Be sure to articulate your goals and explain exactly what it is you’re interested in getting out of the relationship. Do you want to plan carefully for retirement? Have some short-term money goals in mind? Think carefully about these things before you visit.
Don’t be afraid to give yourself time to think after each hour with your financial advisor is up. You’re entitled to think about the decision — after all, your future’s at stake.
Methodology
To determine the top financial advisors in North Carolina, we pored through all SEC-registered advisory firms with offices in North Carolina. We winnowed the list by only including advisors who are registered fiduciaries, had no past disclosures and have minimal personal conflicts of interest. We gave weight to companies that offer both investment management and planning, had no conflicts of interest, had offices in multiple states, have a wrap fee program and over $50 million in assets under management.
About Kathryn Hauer, CFP®
Kathy is an expert in finance (personal, corporate), financial planning, financial literacy, tax preparation and laws, saving and investing, retirement, insurance, careers, college education planning and financing, cannabis, gig economy, forming and running a business, credit and debt issues, blue-collar workers, and military issues. She has a strong interest in crypto, DeFi, FinTech, InsureTech, AgTech.