Choosing the right financial advisor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, especially if you’re managing significant wealth or running a business. Cerity Partners is a firm that often comes up in this conversation, but are they the right choice for you?
In this comprehensive review, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Cerity Partners before making a decision — from their services and fees to client reviews and more.
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Who Are Cerity Partners?
Cerity Partners is a fee-only, registered investment advisory (RIA) firm founded in 2009. With offices across the U.S., they serve high-net-worth individuals, business owners, corporate executives, and institutions.
Known for their holistic approach to financial management, Cerity Partners offers comprehensive wealth planning that covers every facet of a client’s financial life. Their growth has been fueled by mergers and acquisitions, expanding their footprint and expertise across major financial markets.
Key Services and Specializations
Cerity Partners provides a wide range of services tailored to the needs of high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutions. Their integrated approach ensures that every aspect of a client’s financial life is considered and strategically aligned with long-term objectives.
Wealth Management
At the core of Cerity Partners’ offering is a personalized wealth management strategy. Each client receives a customized investment plan that takes into account their risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity needs, and financial goals. The firm employs a disciplined investment philosophy, often leveraging globally diversified portfolios, tax-efficient strategies, and active risk management to preserve and grow wealth across market cycles.
Tax & Estate Planning
Cerity Partners goes beyond typical investment advice by offering in-depth tax and estate planning services. Their team of in-house CPAs and estate planning specialists works with clients to structure estates efficiently, minimize tax liabilities, and implement strategies for wealth transfer across generations. This service is especially valuable for individuals with complex holdings such as private businesses, real estate, or international assets.
Retirement & Succession Planning
Whether you’re planning to exit a business or transition into retirement, Cerity Partners offers tailored guidance to help you navigate these life changes. Their team assists with pension planning, cash flow modeling, and succession strategies designed to ensure financial continuity and peace of mind.
Business Owner Advisory
For entrepreneurs and business owners, the firm provides strategic business advisory services. This includes capital structuring, exit planning, risk management, and aligning business goals with personal financial plans.
Niche Services
Cerity Partners also serves clients with specialized needs—such as private equity executives managing complex compensation packages, nonprofit organizations seeking fiduciary oversight, and corporate professionals requiring assistance with stock options and deferred compensation.
This holistic and client-centered model positions Cerity Partners as a true one-stop shop for managing complex, multifaceted financial lives.
Fee Structure and Pricing Model
Cerity Partners operates on a fee-only fiduciary model, which means they don’t earn commissions from selling financial products — their compensation comes directly from their clients. This structure helps reduce conflicts of interest and ensures they are legally obligated to act in your best interest.
Fees are typically based on a percentage of assets under management (AUM), though exact rates may vary depending on portfolio size and service complexity. It’s important to ask for a detailed fee schedule before signing on.
Pros and Cons of Hiring Cerity Partners
✅ Pros
- Fiduciary Duty: They are legally required to act in your best interest.
- Comprehensive Services: Integrated financial, tax, and estate planning.
- National Reach: Strong presence in major cities with deep bench strength.
❌ Cons
- High Minimums: Typically best suited for clients with substantial assets.
- Not Ideal for DIY Investors: May not be the best value for individuals with simpler financial needs.
Client Reviews and Reputation
Cerity Partners generally enjoys a strong reputation within the financial advisory industry, with numerous clients praising the firm for its professionalism, comprehensive service model, and client-centric approach. Many clients highlight the firm’s ability to deliver deeply personalized financial strategies that take into account not only investments but also taxes, estate planning, retirement, and philanthropic goals.
Online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and industry-specific sites such as AdvisoryHQ and Barron’s indicate consistent satisfaction among long-term clients. Many appreciate the firm’s fiduciary commitment, noting that the advisors genuinely act in their best interests and don’t try to push proprietary products. This transparency is a key reason many clients cite Cerity Partners over traditional broker-dealer models.
Industry recognition further supports their positive standing. Cerity Partners has been featured on several “Top RIA Firms” lists from reputable financial publications like Barron’s and Financial Times. These accolades are typically based on a firm’s assets under management, growth, and quality of services, signaling a trusted and capable organization.
However, as with any large, multi-office firm, experiences can vary. Some clients have noted that the quality of service depends significantly on the specific advisor or team they work with. A few reviews mention communication lapses, such as delays in response time or inconsistent follow-up, particularly during periods of market volatility or staff turnover. Additionally, clients working with newly merged advisory teams sometimes experience a brief adjustment period as operational processes are integrated.
It’s important to remember that financial planning is a relationship-driven service. Prospective clients should conduct interviews, request references, and review disclosures filed with the SEC (available via the firm’s ADV form) to ensure they’re comfortable with their specific advisor’s background and approach.
In short, while Cerity Partners is widely respected and reviewed positively, personal fit and advisor experience remain crucial factors when considering their services.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring Cerity Partners
Before hiring any financial advisor—especially a comprehensive firm like Cerity Partners—it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure alignment with your goals, values, and expectations. Here are key questions to guide your decision-making process:
1. Are you a fiduciary 100% of the time?
This helps confirm whether the advisor is legally obligated to act in your best interest at all times, not just when offering certain services.
2. What are your fees, and how are they structured?
Ask for a clear explanation of how Cerity Partners charges for its services—whether it’s a percentage of assets under management (AUM), hourly fees, or flat fees—and what those include.
3. Who will be on my advisory team?
At larger firms, your primary contact may be supported by a team. Ask about their qualifications and how responsibilities are divided.
4. What is your typical client profile?
Understanding who they work with most often helps gauge whether their expertise aligns with your specific financial situation.
5. How do you handle investment management and financial planning?
Some firms separate investment services from planning, while others integrate them. Make sure the firm’s approach suits your needs.
6. How do you communicate with clients?
Set expectations about how often you’ll hear from your advisor, the format of meetings, and who you’ll contact for ongoing needs.
Asking these questions helps clarify the relationship, reduce surprises, and ensure you’re choosing an advisor who fits your financial life and personal preferences.
Who Should Consider Cerity Partners?
Cerity Partners is best suited for clients who have multifaceted financial lives and require a high level of strategic planning across various areas of wealth management. Their comprehensive, in-house expertise in investment management, tax planning, estate strategy, and business advisory makes them particularly valuable to clients with sophisticated financial needs.
Ideal Candidates Include:
- Individuals with Complex Financial Portfolios: If you have multiple income streams, real estate investments, stock options, or a blend of traditional and alternative investments, Cerity Partners can help integrate and optimize your financial landscape.
- Business Owners: Entrepreneurs often face unique challenges that straddle both personal and corporate financial planning. Cerity Partners offers tailored strategies for business growth, succession planning, and eventual exit or transition, aligning your business interests with personal wealth goals.
- High-Net-Worth Families: Families with substantial assets looking to preserve wealth across generations will benefit from the firm’s estate planning, trust structuring, and philanthropic advisory services. Cerity’s holistic approach helps create long-term financial legacies while managing tax exposure.
That said, if your financial needs are relatively straightforward—such as managing a single retirement account or saving for a home—a smaller advisory firm or robo-advisor might be more practical and cost-effective. These alternatives often offer lower fees and simplified service models that are better aligned with the needs of emerging investors. Ultimately, the key is finding a financial advisor whose expertise matches the complexity of your financial life.
Final Thoughts: Is Cerity Partners Right for You?
Cerity Partners offers robust services and a fiduciary commitment that should appeal to affluent individuals seeking a trusted, all-in-one financial advisor. However, their services come with a premium, and they’re best suited for clients with complex needs and substantial investable assets.
Before hiring any advisor, make sure to:
- Compare multiple firms
- Request a detailed fee breakdown
- Ask how they tailor services to your specific situation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cerity Partners a fiduciary?
Yes. As a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), Cerity Partners is legally bound to act in their clients’ best interests at all times, ensuring transparency and minimizing conflicts of interest.
What is the minimum investment required?
Minimum investment requirements typically start around $1 million in investable assets, though this may vary by advisor or location. It’s best to confirm directly with the firm.
How does Cerity Partners compare to other firms?
Cerity Partners is often compared to firms like Mercer Advisors or Creative Planning, but distinguishes itself with robust in-house capabilities in tax planning, estate strategy, and business advisory, making it particularly appealing to clients with complex financial lives.
What types of clients does Cerity Partners typically work with?
Their primary clientele includes high-net-worth individuals, business owners, corporate executives, and multi-generational families. They also serve nonprofits and institutions seeking fiduciary financial oversight.
Do they offer one-time financial plans or only ongoing advisory services?
Cerity Partners focuses on long-term, ongoing advisory relationships. While they may provide standalone planning services, their model is best suited for clients seeking a continuous and comprehensive financial management relationship.
Are their advisors credentialed?
Yes. Many of Cerity’s professionals hold advanced credentials such as CFP® (Certified Financial Planner), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst), and JD (Juris Doctor), ensuring a high level of technical expertise.
How often will I hear from my advisor?
Clients typically receive regular reviews (quarterly or semi-annual) and can expect prompt communication during major financial events or market shifts. Communication frequency is tailored to client preference and complexity.
