9 Best Financial Advisors and Planners in Atlanta, GA

A fee-only financial advisor is compensated solely by their clients. Advisors operating under this model do not receive commissions or compensation tied to investment products. This structure is intended to align the advisor’s advice with the client’s financial goals. For many clients, understanding how an advisor is paid is an important part of building confidence in the planning relationship.

At HB Wealth, the fee-only model supports our commitment to a fiduciary standard, elevated. Our approach is built on ten principles that guide how we serve our clients.

A fee-based financial advisor uses a hybrid compensation model. They may charge clients a fee for advice or ongoing services, but can also receive commissions or compensation from certain financial products.

This model is commonly used by banks or brokerage firms, which may describe their services as fee-based. While clients may pay a fee, additional compensation can still exist depending on the products or services recommended.

Understanding whether an advisor receives compensation beyond client fees is an important part of evaluating potential conflicts of interest and overall alignment.

Advisors typically use one of three models:

Fee-only — Paid directly by clients through asset-based fees, flat retainers, or hourly rates. No commissions or product compensation.

Fee-based — A hybrid model where advisors may charge a fee but also receive commissions from certain products or services.

Commission-based — Compensated through commissions on products sold. Clients may not pay an explicit fee, but costs are embedded in the products.

Understanding how your advisor is paid, and whether any indirect costs exist, is an important part of evaluating fit. HB Wealth operates as a fee-only fiduciary, meaning advisors are paid directly by clients and are committed to advice aligned with their best interests.

A fiduciary financial advisor is legally and ethically required to act in your best interest at all times. This means their recommendations must be based on what’s best for you — not their compensation, firm incentives, or product sales.

Fiduciaries are also expected to avoid or clearly disclose conflicts of interest and provide advice that is transparent, objective, and aligned with your goals.

Choosing a financial advisor is an important decision, and there are several key factors to consider when evaluating your options.

Fiduciary standard — Is the advisor legally required to put your interests first?

Fee transparency — How are they compensated, and are there indirect costs?

Services — Do they offer comprehensive planning across investments, tax, estate, and retirement?

Team model — A collaborative approach can provide broader expertise and continuity.

Alignment of interests — Independent, advice-only firms can offer a more objective perspective.

HB Wealth, headquartered in Atlanta, operates as a fee-only fiduciary with a team-based model designed to support clients across all aspects of their financial lives.