Hiring Help
DECISIONS · HIRING HELP
Written by a retired fee only financial planner who worked only with physician households.
The pay test
You pay them, and nobody else can pay them. Fee only means no commission, product cut, referral fee, or revenue share. Ask for the dollar fee in writing.
Decision cards
1. Do I need a planner?
Complexity, 1099 or partnership income, forgiveness, a house, a buy in, or stalled follow through can earn a planner closer consideration. Write down three decisions you avoid. A deadline is the hire.
2. How are planners paid?
Commission means products pay them. Fee based can include commissions. Fee only means paid only by you. Ask if it is in writing and ask for Form ADV Part 2.
3. What should I get?
A written plan covering cash flow, debt, protection, investments, and goals. Ask for a sample plan.
4. Ten minute questions
- Are you a fiduciary in writing?
- How are you paid?
- Do you sell insurance?
- Who does the work?
- How do we end this?
5. Verify
Check SEC disclosure and Form ADV, FINRA BrokerCheck, CFP Board verification when claimed, your state regulator, the agreement, and complaints.
FAQ
Can I hire Ryan Inman? No. He is retired from practice.
Does Financial Fellowship refer physicians? No. It teaches evaluation.
Verify
Verified Sept 5, 2026 by Ryan Inman.