Financial Planner vs. Financial Advisor: What’s the Difference?

Financial Planner vs. Financial Advisor: What’s the Difference?

If you're confused about whether you need a financial planner or a financial advisor—you’re not alone. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not identical. Understanding the difference can help you make a smarter choice for your financial future.

What Is a Financial Advisor?

"Financial advisor" is a broad term. It can apply to professionals who help you manage money in various ways—investment brokers, insurance agents, portfolio managers, and more.

Here’s the challenge: not all financial advisors are held to the same standard. Many are paid through commissions for selling products like mutual funds or annuities. That can lead to biased advice that benefits their paycheck more than your goals.

What Is a Financial Planner?

A financial planner is typically someone who offers comprehensive financial advice across areas like retirement, taxes, estate planning, and insurance.

The gold standard in this category is the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation. To become a CFP®, professionals must complete extensive education, pass a rigorous exam, and uphold strict ethical and fiduciary standards.

CFP® professionals are trained to look at your entire financial picture, not just your investment portfolio. That means a more thoughtful, strategic approach to helping you reach your goals.

Why the Difference Matters

When it comes to your financial future, who you trust matters. At ROI Wealth Management, our team includes CFP® professionals who are also fee-only fiduciaries.

That means:

• No commissions

• No product sales

• No pressure

• Just advice that’s legally and ethically required to serve your best interests

Whether you're planning for retirement, growing your wealth, or preserving a legacy for future generations, our approach is rooted in transparency, trust, and long-term thinking.

How to Choose the Right Fit

Ask these key questions when evaluating any financial professional:

• Are you a fiduciary?

• How are you compensated?

• Are you a CFP®?

• Do you offer holistic planning, or just investment advice?

The answers will tell you whether you’re getting a product salesperson—or a trusted partner.

Start With a Free Portfolio Review + Retirement Roadmap

We make it easy to start with confidence. Your first meeting with ROI includes:

✔ A complimentary 1:1 consultation with a fiduciary advisor ✔ A review of your current portfolio and risk exposure ✔ Expert guidance on retirement, estate, tax, insurance, and investment planning ✔ A personalized Retirement Roadmap tailored to your goals

📍 Based in Lehi, Utah | Serving clients across Utah County and virtually across the U.S. 🌐 Schedule your free review at www.roionweb.com

No pressure. Just clear, objective advice from a second-generation family firm that puts you first.