The American Institute of Financial Advisors selects advisors and firms for the 10 Best using the following process.

1. Eligibility

  • The advisor or firm provides financial advisory, planning, or wealth management services to clients in the United States.
  • The advisor or firm maintains a public Google Business Profile.

2. Client Review Threshold

  • Strong average Google client review ratings at the time of the research review.
  • Advisors are evaluated on client feedback, reputation, professional standing and other qualitative factors.

3. Research Period

Review data is collected annually over a recent review period. Ratings may change over time.

4. Selection

Within each state (or region, for larger states), a limited number of advisors or firms meeting the criteria are selected, giving weight to client ratings and the volume of reviews. The selection committee makes final determinations at its discretion.

5. Review and Removal

We may decline or remove a selection at our discretion, including where we learn of information inconsistent with client satisfaction. Concerns may be sent to contact@aiofa.org.

What the Criteria Do NOT Include

  • Payment of any kind. No fee is paid to be selected. Fees apply only to optional membership and marketing materials.
  • Investment performance, returns, or assets under management.
  • Verification of licensing, registration, or disciplinary history.
  • Independent surveys of clients. Ratings reflect third-party Google reviews, which we do not create, edit, or verify.

Recognition is not indicative of the advisor’s future performance or of any client’s future experience. See the full Award Disclosure.

American Institute of Financial Advisors