Loyal to clients, not to companies. That’s the mantra here at E.H. Howard—and for good reason. Navigating the financial world can feel like wading through a maze blindfolded. Who do you trust? Are those “free” services hiding hidden costs? Is your financial advisor truly prioritizing your best interests or just selling products to boost their commission? At E.H. Howard, we’re proud to embody the role of the independent fiduciary—the trusted source of unbiased financial advice. Partnering with us is one of the most empowering steps you can take for your financial future.
What is an Independent Fiduciary?
Let’s break it down. An independent fiduciary is a financial professional legally bound to act in your best interest—not their company’s, not their bottom line, and certainly not a commission check. Unlike brokers or advisors tied to a specific firm, independent fiduciaries work without allegiance to any one financial institution or investment product. Instead, they have the freedom to recommend options across the entire market that align directly with your goals and needs. Unbiased, real, and 100% tailored to you.
Ethical and Legal Obligations
Here’s the deal—an independent fiduciary isn’t just morally motivated to prioritize you; they are legally obligated to do so. Yes, you heard that right—legally! Think of it as the gold standard of accountability in the financial world. There’s no room for company-driven agendas, flashy product promotions, or shady compensation models.
Many financial professionals fall prey to company and compensation bias. Ever been offered an “exclusive” product or service that turned out to cater more to their sales strategy than your financial goals? That doesn’t happen with fiduciaries. By aligning their entire approach to meet your financial objectives, they help you achieve your goals using safe and effective solutions available across the market. With an independent fiduciary, everything comes back to one central question—is this the absolute best thing for my client?
Fee Transparency
Have you ever scratched your head over a pile of financial jargon, wondering, “What exactly am I paying for?” Fee structures in the financial sector can often feel like an enigma. Some advisors wrap hidden fees, complicated transaction costs, or ambiguous terms into their services. You end up unknowingly footing the bill for things you didn’t even ask for.
With an independent fiduciary, there’s no such mystery. Fees are straightforward, clear, and laid out for you to see. Whether it’s flat fees, hourly rates, or a percentage of your assets under management, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying—and why. This level of transparency ensures their recommendations align with your success, not their wallet. No hidden agendas. No hidden fees. Just fair, open, and simple pricing.
Personalized Advice Like No Other
Does your financial plan reflect you—your dreams, your priorities, your lifestyle? Or does it feel like you’ve been shoved into a one-size-fits-all portfolio? When you work with an independent fiduciary, generic advice goes out the window.
Because they aren’t confined to a single company or product lineup, fiduciaries create plans as unique as the clients they serve. Whether it’s understanding your views on money, lifelong aspirations, or your risk tolerance, they take an individualized approach tailored specifically to you. Cookie-cutter solutions? Nope. They craft financial roadmaps designed exclusively for your goals. After all, no two financial journeys are the same—so why should your plan look like everyone else’s?
Picture this: maybe you’re saving for your kids’ college, planning for an early retirement, or investing in a second property. An independent fiduciary takes all these factors into account and designs a strategy that’s uniquely yours. The result? A plan that works—for you, and only you.
Independent Fiduciary FAQ:
1. What’s the difference between a fiduciary and a regular financial advisor?
Great question! While all fiduciaries are financial advisors, not all financial advisors are fiduciaries. Non-fiduciary advisors may only be held to a “suitability standard,” which means their recommendations must be suitable—but not necessarily the best option available. Fiduciaries, on the other hand, are held to a higher “best interest” standard. They must prioritize your needs above all else, ensuring every recommendation aligns with what’s best for you.
2.What is an independent fiduciary's responsibility?
An independent fiduciary’s responsibility is to provide unbiased, ethical financial advice that aligns with their client's best interests. This includes creating personalized plans and transparent fee structures, as well as continually monitoring and adjusting the plan as needed to ensure it remains in line with the client's goals.
3. Are independent fiduciaries expensive?
Think of working with an independent fiduciary as an investment in your future. While fees might vary, they’re transparent from day one—no sneaky charges or hidden commissions. Most fiduciaries operate under a flat-fee model, an hourly rate, or a percentage based on the assets they manage for you. This means their success is tied directly to yours, making it more cost-effective in the long run.
4. How do I know if my advisor is a fiduciary?
Always ask! A true fiduciary will have no problem stating their obligation to act in your best interest. You can also look for advisors registered with the SEC or state regulators as Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs)—these professionals are required to operate as fiduciaries.
5. What’s the advantage of working with an independent fiduciary versus an advisor tied to a specific company?
The freedom to consider every investment option on the market is what sets independent fiduciaries apart. Advisors tied to a company often recommend products from their firm’s limited lineup, whether or not it’s the best choice for you. Fiduciaries aren’t confined to these constraints, giving them the ability to craft truly customized, unbiased strategies.
6. Is hiring an independent fiduciary worth it for small portfolios?
Absolutely. Whether you’re managing a million-dollar portfolio or just starting out, the guidance of an independent fiduciary ensures that every financial decision you make is in your best interest. Plus, their customized approach can help you grow and refine your portfolio over time, setting you on the path to long-term success.
Why Settle for Less?
Choosing your financial advisor is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make—and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. With an independent fiduciary in your corner, you can rest easy knowing that every recommendation, every strategy, and every action is driven by one purpose—to help you succeed.
Don’t settle for cookie-cutter plans or conflicted advice. Opt for transparent fees, personalized strategies, and unbiased guidance. Contact us today and take control of your financial future with confidence.