Before you trust ANY advisor with your money… do this first:
Go to BrokerCheck.FINRA.org
Financial advisor records are public. You can look up any advisor. I invite you to search “David Treece” and see what FINRA reports about me.
Here’s what I want you to focus on: disclosure events.
These include:
- Customer complaints
- Regulatory actions
- Getting fired
- Bankruptcy
- Criminal or civil cases
If you see those, pay attention. Do your research before trusting your money with anyone with these events on their record.
Here’s another big one: follow the money.
If an advisor states, “You can just write your check payable directly to me.” Don’t!
RED FLAG: Your money should NEVER go directly to an advisor. Instead, it should be held with a third-party custodian, such as:
- Bank
- Trust company
- Insurance company
- Or investment custodian
That means:
- You can see your account
- You can track performance
- You get statements directly
Always make deposits payable to the custodian. Always receive withdrawals from the custodian. Your money should always be protected and visible.
Do you have questions about how a financial advisor handles your money?
P.S. Get more insights and tips on what to expect from a financial advisor in my Your Wealth Your Way book and video resources. I share tried-and-true planning strategies, real-world examples, and what to expect regarding the fees you pay.