how-to work with an advisor

The start of a relationship built to last

At Merrill, our advisors are among the most recognized in the industry. In fact, Merrill had the most advisors listed on the 2024 Forbes “America’s Top Next-Generation Wealth Advisors”  list.1 Published on August 8, 2024. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2024. Learn why having the right financial advisor is key, and then start a conversation with one to see all the ways we can help.

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5 Top Reasons People Turn To An Advisor

Buying a home? Paying for college? Retiring soon? Working with a financial advisor can help you plan for these goals and prepare for the unexpected.

Preparing for the big ‘what-ifs’ in your financial life

Steps you can take to make sure unexpected events don't interfere with your long-term plans

The value of financial advice during volatile markets

Working with an advisor can help you prepare for down markets—and stay grounded when they come
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Dealing with Volatility: What You Need to Know Now

Get the latest information and insights to help you manage risk when the markets shift.

7 questions every advisor should be able to answer

Whatever your priorities, this can help you find someone who understands you and has the resources to help you with your financial life

Juggling competing financial goals

College tuition, retirement savings and more—your financial goals can sometimes seem overwhelming. This five-step process can help you pursue them all.
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Create a Plan that is All About You

Merrill can help you build and document a personalized plan, centered on your goals and focused on what you want to achieve.

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All our advisors are committed to putting your needs and priorities first. And we now have a more personalized way to choose an advisor who matches your personal preferences.

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1 2024 Forbes “America’s Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors” list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC considered advisors born in 1985 or later with a minimum 4 years as an advisor. Advisors have built their practices, lead their own teams, joined teams, are considered future leaders, or combinations thereof. Ranking is based on in-person and telephone due-diligence meetings that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion). Shook’s rankings do not reflect all client experiences, endorse any advisor, indicate future performance and are available for client evaluation only. Compensation was not received from anyone for the study. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Details available at SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.

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Investing involves risk. There is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Asset allocation, rebalancing and diversification do not guarantee against risk in broadly declining markets.

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

This material is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. Additional information is available in our Client Relationship Summary. 

This material does not take into account a client’s particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation, offer, or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select. For more information about these services and their differences, speak with your Merrill financial advisor.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Insurance and annuity products are offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc., a licensed insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation.

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