Facts, not ratings. Where each advisor works, their firm, and their CFP® certification come from public SEC records (Form ADV and the SEC's adviser database), updated weekly. There are no reviews or star ratings.
No one pays to be here, or to rank higher. Advisors who've claimed their Advicer.bio page come first, because they're the ones who can answer a message. Then verified advisors, then CFP® professionals, then A to Z.
Check before you hire. Every advisor has a link to their SEC record, with their registrations and any disclosures.
This isn't advice or a recommendation of any advisor. It's a starting point.
Before you hire an advisor in Santa Clara, CA
Look up their record. The SEC link on each advisor shows where they've worked, their registrations and any disciplinary disclosures.
Read the firm's brochure. Every registered firm files a Form ADV Part 2 that explains its services, fees and conflicts of interest in plain language.
Ask how they're paid. A flat fee, a percentage of assets, hourly, or commissions on products. Each one changes what you pay and what they recommend.
Ask whether they act as a fiduciary for all of your accounts, all of the time, and get the answer in writing.
Check the fit. Ask who they usually work with, what's included, and how often you'll talk. A first meeting is usually free.
Are you an advisor? Claim your page so people looking for an advisor near you can reach you. It's free.