FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

FeeOnlyFinancial.ca is a curated directory to help Canadians find trustworthy, transparent Fee-Based and Fee-Only Financial Planners.

We aim to simplify your search for qualified advisors who prioritize your best interests.

The site is independently managed by a team focused on consumer advocacy and transparent financial guidance.

The team at FeeOnlyFinancial.ca has profound knowledge and a wealth of experience in the Canadian wealth management industry.

No, our directory is free for consumers to browse and use.

We do not charge users for accessing advisor profiles or searching by city or service type.

We review and update listings regularly throughout the year.

Planners and Advisors may also contact us to update their information or request verification of their status.

• Fee-Only Advisors are paid exclusively by clients and never earn commissions.
• Fee-Based Advisors charge a fee and may also earn limited commissions from products.
• Commission-Based Advisors are paid solely through product sales.

Yes, many Fee-Based Advisors operate ethically and act in their clients' best interests.

However, they must clearly disclose potential conflicts related to commissions.

Most fee-only advisors follow fiduciary principles, but fiduciary status depends on regulation and designation.

Always ask if your planner or advisor is legally required to act in your best interest.

Not exactly. Fee-only advisors often operate as fiduciaries, but being a fiduciary is a legal and ethical obligation to act in the client’s best interest.

Fee-only refers specifically to how an advisor is compensated.

Yes, a fee-based advisor can act as a fiduciary, especially during financial planning engagements.

However, if they receive commissions from products, they must clearly disclose this and manage potential conflicts.

Look or ask for clear fee disclosure, strong credentials (like CFP®, CIM®, CFA®), and a service model that fits your financial goals.

Use our listings to compare options in your city or let us match you with a financial planner.

The most respected credentials include CFP® (Certified Financial Planner), CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst), and CIM® (Chartered Investment Manager).

These designations require rigorous training, ongoing education, and a fiduciary or ethical duty to clients.

Yes. We present vetted profiles with the help of our ranking criteria. Our goal is to help you find a reputable and trustworthy financial expert.

Our focus is on Fee-Only and Fee-Based Advisors because their compensation structures generally support more objective, client-centered advice.

Commission-Only and Commission-Based models may create conflicts of interest that we believe reduce transparency for consumers.

Most advisors listed operate independently or through independent firms.

While some may be affiliated with larger networks, they are included based on their ability to deliver transparent, client-first advice under either a fee-only or fee-based model.

Yes, each advisor profile includes a direct website link and contact details for easy access.

Yes, many advisors listed on FeeOnlyFinancial.ca offer virtual consultations and ongoing planning services through secure video calls, phone, or email.

This allows you to choose the best advisor for your needs, even if they aren't located in your city.

We welcome inquiries from qualified advisors. Contact us via email at partnership@feeonlyfinancial.ca and include your website and disclosure of your compensation structure for review.

Yes, if you're already listed, just reach out at partnership@feeonlyfinancial.ca and we’ll update your profile as needed.

Yes, if you're listed and prefer not to be included, just contact us with proof of identity or firm affiliation and we'll remove your profile promptly. You can email us at partnership@feeonlyfinancial.ca.

No. Our directory is editorially curated and unpaid to maintain objectivity and trust. This may change in the future.

We assess online reputation, credentials, compensation structure, service offering, website experience, digital presence, fiduciary commitment, and more.

Read our Methodology here.

We rely on clear public disclosures and firm information.

Where ambiguity exists, we reach out directly or label listings accordingly.

Yes, we prioritize advisors who operate under a fiduciary standard and disclose that status clearly on their websites or through their certifications.