When this makes sense
Fee-only advisor
A fee-only advisor is the right fit when you want advice with the fewest built-in conflicts — someone whose only incentive is the quality of the advice, not the products attached to it. It's the model most appropriate for coordinated, long-term planning.
When this makes sense
Commission-based advisor
A commission-based arrangement can make sense for a one-time, product-specific transaction — buying a particular insurance policy, for example — where you understand the commission and don't need ongoing, conflict-free advice.
The bottom line
Up Capital Management is fee-only. We're paid only by our clients, never by product companies, so our interests and yours point the same direction.
See how we’re paidCommon questions
Is fee-only the same as fee-based?
No. Fee-only advisors are paid only by clients. Fee-based advisors can earn both client fees and product commissions — which reintroduces the conflicts fee-only is designed to remove.
Is a fee-only advisor always a fiduciary?
Registered Investment Advisers are held to a fiduciary standard by law. Fee-only structure and fiduciary duty typically go together, which is why the combination is considered the gold standard for advice.