Retirement Buddy vs. Financial Advisors
We believe in honesty. Here's an unbiased comparison to help you decide which option is right for your situation.
Both have their place. We'll tell you exactly when to choose each.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
A transparent look at how we stack up
| Feature | Retirement Buddy | Financial Advisor |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0-$3/month | $2,000-$5,000+/year (1% AUM typical) |
| Availability | 24/7 instant responses | Scheduled appointments (business hours) |
| Personalization | AI-powered adaptive guidance | Human expertise and relationship |
| Emotional Support | Built-in anxiety reduction & empathetic AI | Human connection and reassurance |
| Monte Carlo Simulations | Advanced 10,000+ scenario modeling | Varies by advisor (often similar tools) |
| Investment Management | Educational guidance only | Full portfolio management & execution |
| Complex Estate Planning | Not included | Comprehensive planning available |
| Tax Filing | Not included | May include or coordinate with CPA |
| Conflicts of Interest | None (no products sold) | Potential (depends on fee structure) |
| Getting Started | Minutes, no commitment | Weeks, often minimum assets required |
Cost
Retirement Buddy
$0-$3/month
Financial Advisor
$2,000-$5,000+/year (1% AUM typical)
Availability
Retirement Buddy
24/7 instant responses
Financial Advisor
Scheduled appointments (business hours)
Personalization
Retirement Buddy
AI-powered adaptive guidance
Financial Advisor
Human expertise and relationship
Emotional Support
Retirement Buddy
Built-in anxiety reduction & empathetic AI
Financial Advisor
Human connection and reassurance
Monte Carlo Simulations
Retirement Buddy
Advanced 10,000+ scenario modeling
Financial Advisor
Varies by advisor (often similar tools)
Investment Management
Retirement Buddy
Educational guidance only
Financial Advisor
Full portfolio management & execution
Complex Estate Planning
Retirement Buddy
Not included
Financial Advisor
Comprehensive planning available
Tax Filing
Retirement Buddy
Not included
Financial Advisor
May include or coordinate with CPA
Conflicts of Interest
Retirement Buddy
None (no products sold)
Financial Advisor
Potential (depends on fee structure)
Getting Started
Retirement Buddy
Minutes, no commitment
Financial Advisor
Weeks, often minimum assets required
When a Financial Advisor Is the Better Choice
We're honest: if you fit these situations, you might be better served by a traditional financial advisor.
High Net Worth ($2M+ in Assets)
Complex portfolios, tax strategies, and estate planning needs often justify advisor fees.
Complex Estate Planning Needs
Trusts, multi-generational wealth transfer, and charitable giving strategies require specialized expertise.
Need Full-Service Investment Management
Want someone to actively manage your portfolio, rebalance, and make investment decisions for you.
Prefer Human Relationship
Value face-to-face meetings and established long-term relationships with a specific person.
Business Owner or Complex Income
Own a business, have stock options, or complex compensation that needs specialized planning.
Our recommendation: If you have over $2M in assets or need comprehensive investment management and estate planning, the advisor fees are often justified. A good fee-only fiduciary advisor can add significant value.
When Retirement Buddy Is the Better Choice
If these describe your situation, Retirement Buddy offers the guidance you need at a fraction of the cost.
Straightforward Financial Situation
Traditional retirement accounts (401k, IRA), Social Security, and standard income sources.
Budget-Conscious Planning
Want professional-grade planning tools without paying thousands annually.
Prefer Self-Service with AI Guidance
Like being in control but want intelligent guidance and accountability.
Need Immediate Access
Want answers now, not in 2-3 weeks after scheduling appointments.
Emotional Support Focus
Dealing with retirement anxiety and identity transitions, not just numbers.
Want to Learn
Prefer understanding the "why" behind recommendations rather than just being told what to do.
Perfect fit: You're 45-70, approaching or in early retirement, have straightforward finances (401k, IRA, Social Security), and want expert guidance without the hefty advisor fees. You're also navigating the emotional side of retirement, not just the numbers.
Can You Use Both?
Absolutely! Many users find value in using Retirement Buddy alongside a financial advisor:
- Between meetings: Use Retirement Buddy for day-to-day questions and scenario testing without waiting for appointments
- Emotional support: Get anxiety reduction and retirement transition coaching that complements financial planning
- Prepare for advisor meetings: Come better informed with questions and scenarios already explored
- Cost savings: Reduce advisor fees by handling routine planning yourself while keeping them for complex decisions
Think of Retirement Buddy as your always-available retirement coach, and your advisor as your specialist for complex moves.
Ready to See If Retirement Buddy Is Right for You?
Start free. No credit card required. See for yourself in minutes, not weeks.