Should I Change Advisors? 7 Questions to Ask When You're Feeling Stuck

When Loyalty Meets Uncertainty

If you've worked with a financial advisor for years, the idea of making a change can feel uncomfortable, even disloyal. After all, this person likely knows your family, your finances, your fears, and your dreams. But what if something doesn’t feel right anymore? What if you’re just not progressing the way you’d hoped? You’re not alone in wondering, "Should I change advisors?" The question itself is a sign that it may be time for a fresh perspective.

We’re not here to undermine other advisors. In fact, many do great work. However, when your financial life becomes more complex, perhaps due to business growth, a liquidity event, inheritance, or nearing retirement, it’s worth asking if your current advisory relationship is still equipped to meet your evolving needs.

1. Are They Listening to You?

Your financial life is unique, and any plan built for you should reflect that. If meetings feel one-sided, rushed, or overly product-driven, that’s a red flag. The right advisor listens deeply before prescribing. They don’t just ask about assets, they ask about aspirations, fears, values, and legacy. They should help you see the big picture and align every detail to your goals.

2. Has Your Life Grown Beyond Their Capabilities?

When your financial complexity grows, your advisor should grow with you. Maybe you now own multiple properties, manage a sizable business, or have children approaching college. Does your advisor proactively bring up strategies for tax mitigation, estate planning, and succession? If they’re not anticipating your needs, it may be time to find someone who can.

3. Do They Integrate All Areas of Your Financial Life?

Wealth management isn't just about investments. It includes insurance, taxes, estate planning, business succession, and more. If you’re constantly having to coordinate between your CPA, attorney, and advisor, or worse, your advisor isn’t even in the loop; that’s inefficient and risky. A holistic advisor acts as your financial quarterback, bringing all pieces together in a cohesive strategy.

4. Are You Getting Proactive Communication?

Too often, people only hear from their advisor during annual reviews, or worse, when they reach out. Your financial plan isn’t static, and neither is the world around it. A trusted advisor keeps you updated with timely insights, explains market changes in plain English, and checks in when life events occur. You shouldn’t feel like a number. You should feel like a priority.

5. Do They Help You Sleep Better at Night?

This one’s simple: Does your advisor reduce your stress, or add to it? If you leave meetings confused, overwhelmed, or unsure, that’s not okay. Great advisors simplify the complex. They help you feel prepared, not panicked. Financial peace of mind isn’t a luxury, it’s the whole point of having an advisor in the first place.

6. Are They a Fiduciary?

Not all advisors are held to the same standard. Fiduciaries are legally obligated to act in your best interest. That means no commissions, no product pushing, just advice that benefits you. If your advisor isn’t a fiduciary or hasn’t clearly explained their compensation model, ask. Transparency is non-negotiable when it comes to trust.

7. Are You Growing Together?

You’ve changed. Your life has evolved. Your wealth picture is more nuanced. If your advisor relationship feels frozen in time, or stuck in “set it and forget it” mode, it’s worth considering whether you’ve outgrown the partnership. The best advisors grow with their clients, adapting strategies over time and constantly bringing fresh thinking to the table.

Change Can Be a Sign of Growth

Choosing a new advisor isn’t a breakup, it’s a step toward the future you want to build. Like any good relationship, the advisor-client connection should evolve, deepen, and inspire confidence. If yours no longer does, it’s okay to look for someone who better fits where you are today and where you’re headed tomorrow.

At Altum Wealth Alliance, we specialize in transitions like this. Many of our clients came to us feeling unsure or stuck and are now thriving with clarity and confidence. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a change, let’s talk. We’ll never pressure you, but we will listen, assess, and help you make the right move for you and your family.