Fee Structure Analyzer
Compare the true cost of advisor fee models.
Adjust your investable asset level to see how different fee structures compare over time. Understanding fees is critical — even small differences compound significantly.
Your Investable Assets
Drag the slider or select a preset amount
$500,000
AUM (Assets Under Management)
You pay a percentage of your total managed assets annually. The most common model for ongoing advisory relationships.
1.0% of assets
Annual
$5,000
5-Year
$25,000
10-Year
$50,000
Flat Fee (Annual Retainer)
A fixed annual fee for comprehensive financial planning, regardless of your asset level. Increasingly popular for its transparency.
$2,000–$7,500/year
Annual
$5,000
5-Year
$25,000
10-Year
$50,000
Hourly
Pay only for the time you use. Best for specific questions or one-time planning engagements. Typical: $200–$400/hour.
$250/hour avg (est. 8–20 hrs/year)
Annual
$4,000
5-Year
$20,000
10-Year
$40,000
Lowest Cost
Subscription (Monthly)
A monthly subscription model, often used by newer planning firms targeting younger clients. Typically $100–$300/month.
$150–$300/month
Annual
$3,000
5-Year
$15,000
10-Year
$30,000
Important Notes About Fees
- • AUM fees compound — as your portfolio grows, the dollar amount increases even if the percentage stays the same.
- • Lower fees don’t always mean better value. A higher-fee advisor who provides comprehensive planning, tax optimization, and behavioral coaching may deliver more net value.
- • Ask about all fees — some advisors charge advisory fees plus underlying fund expenses, trading costs, or financial planning fees.
- • Fee-only vs. fee-based: Fee-only advisors earn only from client fees. Fee-based advisors may also earn commissions on products they sell — a potential conflict of interest.