The only compensation we receive is the fee our clients pay directly to us. We don’t accept commissions, referral fees or rebates. We take a fiduciary role with each of our clients.

Fee-Only Financial Planners

• We hold ourselves to the highest fiduciary standard.
• Every action we take must pass the basic question – “Is this the right thing for the client?”
• A typical financial advisor or broker is only held to the lower “suitability” standard.
• Unlike many Wall Street firms, banks and accounting firms we only serve one master . . . our clients.

Compensation Definitions

Understanding how an advisor is compensated is extremely important. The compensation method can have a major influence on the advice provided.

COMMISSION

We define a commission-based compensation arrangement as any relationship where the advisor’s compensation is based on the buying and selling of an investment product. Compensation is generally linked to activity. Commission-based relationships have a high potential for conflict of interest. Independent Wealth Management does not accept commissions.

FEE-BASED

We define a fee-based compensation arrangement as any relationship where the advisor’s compensation is based on receiving compensation from multiple sources. There may be a fee charged for assets under management. Because there are multiple types of compensation, there is potential for confusion and conflicts. Independent Wealth Management is not fee-based.

FEE-ONLY

We define a Fee-Only compensation arrangement as any relationship where the advisor’s compensation is only paid by the client to the advisor. The fee is generally calculated as a percent of the assets under management, an annual retainer, or an hourly billing rate. Because no commissions may be received, Fee-Only compensation has the least potential for conflicts of interest. Independent Wealth Management is a Fee-Only investment firm.