How Does Your Advisor Stack Up? 10 Questions to Ask About Your Retirement Plan

Written on .

When it comes to your retirement, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. You’ve worked hard, saved diligently, and now you deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing your financial future is secure. With so much at stake, it’s essential to work with a financial advisor who you can trust to help you achieve your financial goals. But not all advisors take the same approach—and not all plans are created equal.

So ask yourself: Is your advisor truly doing everything they can to protect and grow your retirement nest egg?

Here are 10 critical questions to help you find out.

1. Is Your Retirement Plan in Writing?

A verbal plan is not a plan. A comprehensive written retirement income plan should detail income streams, tax strategies, risk management, and legacy planning. If it’s not on paper, it’s not concrete.

2. Have They Calculated How Long Your Money Will Last?

The number one fear for retirees is outliving their savings. Your advisor should provide projections that show how long your money will last based on realistic spending, market fluctuations, and life expectancy.

3. Are They Transparent About Fees?

Do you know exactly what you’re paying? Many investors believe they’re paying 1% in fees when, in reality, hidden costs can push that number much higher. A good advisor lays all fees on the table—no surprises.

4. How Do They Protect Against Market Volatility?

Market downturns can wreak havoc on retirement plans. How much could you lose if the market takes a hit? If your advisor hasn’t stress-tested your portfolio against market downturns, you could be exposed to more risk than you realize. This can help you understand your risk tolerance and make sure your investments are appropriate for your goals.

Ask yourself: Does my advisor use strategies to cushion against losses and create income streams unaffected by market swings?

5. Do They Focus on Income, Not Just Growth?

In retirement, the priority shifts from growing your money to generating stable, predictable income. Your advisor should have a clear plan for converting your savings into income that will last your lifetime.

6. Have They Discussed Tax-Efficient Strategies?

Every dollar you lose to taxes is a dollar you can’t use in retirement. Smart advisors integrate tax planning into your retirement strategy, helping you minimize tax burdens and keep more of your income.

7. Do They Account for Healthcare, Long-Term Care Costs, and Estate/Legacy Planning?

Healthcare can be one of the largest expenses in retirement. Your advisor should help you prepare for out-of-pocket costs, Medicare gaps, and long-term care—so unexpected expenses don’t derail your plan.

Passing wealth to your heirs or charities in the most efficient way possible requires careful planning. If legacy planning hasn’t come up in conversations, it’s time to ask why.

8. Do They Conduct Regular Reviews, Reports, and Communications?

To ensure your financial security, your advisor should:

  • Regularly review your portfolio to maintain goal alignment.
  • Provide clear and consistent investment progress reports.
  • Conduct ongoing risk assessments to protect against market changes.
  • Communicate updates regularly and effectively.

9. Do You Know With 100% Certainty Your Retirement Future Is Secure?

True retirement security means confidence without questions.

  • Do you have unwavering confidence that your retirement income is secure for life?
  • Are you 100% confident your retirement income will last your lifetime?
  • Are your plans prepared for worst-case scenarios, like market crashes?
  • Do you have absolute certainty about your retirement security, or do you have doubts?

If you lack absolute certainty, it’s time to seek a plan and advisor that provides true peace of mind.

10. Are They a Fiduciary—Legally Obligated to Act in Your Best Interest?

Not all advisors are fiduciaries. Fiduciaries are required to prioritize your needs over their own financial gain. This is critical when choosing someone to help manage your life savings.

If not, ask What is their investment philosophy? Understand how your advisor approaches investing and whether their philosophy aligns with your risk tolerance.

Evaluate, Don’t Assume.
If your advisor couldn’t confidently answer all these questions—or if they’ve never addressed them—it might be time to seek a second opinion. Retirement is too important to rely on half-measures or hope. You deserve a plan that provides clarity, security, and confidence in your financial future.

At Peak Financial Freedom Group, we’re committed to empowering you with clear, actionable financial guidance. That’s why we offer full transparency, tailored strategies, and comprehensive planning—because peace of mind in retirement isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Ready for a second opinion? Schedule a consultation with us today. Let’s find out how your advisor really stacks up.