What This Scorecard Does
Not every advisor or account is held to the same standard. Some are required to act in your best interest at all times. Others only need to recommend something “suitable.” Most people have never been told which standard applies to their own accounts, or what to look for to find out.
This scorecard walks through ten questions about how your investments are currently managed. It is not a test with a passing grade. It is a way to see, clearly, where your current arrangement stands and where you may want to ask more questions.
How to Score
For each statement, answer Yes, No, or Not Sure. Click Tally My Score at the end to count your Yes answers.
Understanding Your Results
8 to 10 Yes answers: Your current arrangement reflects many of the hallmarks of a fee-only fiduciary relationship. It may still be worth confirming the specifics directly with your advisor.
4 to 7 Yes answers: There are gaps worth understanding better. A conversation with your current advisor, or a second opinion from a fee-only fiduciary advisor, can help clarify where you stand.
0 to 3 Yes answers, or mostly Not Sure: This is common, and it does not mean anything has gone wrong. It does mean there is real value in getting clear, direct answers about how your money is managed and who is compensated for managing it.
This scorecard is meant to inform, not to diagnose or compare one advisor against another. The right standard of care is one you understand and have chosen with full information.
This material is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal, or tax advice.
Towneley Capital Management is a registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Firm ADV disclosure language to be inserted per compliance review.
