NAVIGATOR 22 | My Advisor Is Leaving, Retiring or Selling - What Should I Do?

A steady guide to protecting your plan, your trust, and your peace of mind during an advisor transition.

IF IT HAPPENS TO YOU:

You didn’t choose your advisor casually. You built trust over years — maybe decades. They knew your story, your family, your fears, your priorities. They remembered the details you didn’t want to repeat. So when the news came — retirement, sale, transition — it landed heavier than expected.

You were told “nothing will change.” You were introduced to “the new team.” You were reassured. And yet, something felt unsettled. Not because change is bad — but because trust is personal.

You weren’t worried about markets. You were worried about continuity. Who understands my plan? Who knows why decisions were made? Who will advocate for me when things get complicated? The real question wasn’t whether your advisor deserved to retire or move on.

It was more personal — and more important: “How do I make sure I am protected, understood, and supported through this transition?”

WHAT THIS NAVIGATOR IS:

A client-first guide for navigating an advisor transition — helping you assess continuity, evaluate new relationships thoughtfully, and protect your long-term plan without rushing or reacting. This Navigator is about stability before selection.

A CHECKLIST | To Help You Consider Some Important Questions:

Initial Clarity

☐ Do I understand why my advisor is leaving or transitioning?

☐ Do I know the timeline for the transition?

☐ Do I understand what will change — and what will not?

Plan Continuity

☐ Is my financial plan documented clearly?

☐ Does someone else understand why decisions were made?

☐ Is my plan values-based or personality-dependent?

Relationship & Trust

☐ Do I feel comfortable with the new advisor or team?

☐ Have I met them in a non-urgent setting?

☐ Do they listen more than they talk?

Process & Philosophy

☐ Do they share a clear planning philosophy?

☐ Do they emphasize process over prediction?

☐ Do they align with my values and priorities?

Experience & Capability

☐ Do they have experience with situations like mine?

☐ Do they understand retirement income, tax, and estate issues?

☐ Is there a team or just one person?

Communication & Accessibility

☐ Do I know how and when communication will happen?

☐ Do I know who my primary contact is?

☐ Do I feel free to ask questions or express hesitation?

Fiduciary & Structure

☐ Are they acting as a fiduciary at all times?

☐ Do I understand how they are compensated?

☐ Has anything changed in fees or incentives?

Optionality & Control

☐ Do I know I am not required to stay?

☐ Have I given myself permission to explore alternatives?

☐ Am I avoiding change just because it feels uncomfortable?

Confidence & Alignment

☐ Do I feel more confident after conversations — not less?

☐ Do I trust this relationship to guide me through future uncertainty?

COMPREHENSIVE ACTION PLAN — 9 STEPS

1. Ask for a clear explanation of the transition and timeline

2. Request a copy of your full financial plan and rationale

3. Meet the new advisor without making commitments

4. Ask how decisions will be made going forward

5. Evaluate fit based on listening, not credentials alone

6. Compare philosophy, not just performance

7. Take time — no immediate decisions required

8. Explore alternatives quietly if needed

9. Choose the relationship that gives you confidence, not pressure

ACTION PLAN

Today

• Write down what you valued most about your prior advisor relationship.

This Month

• Meet with the new advisor or team calmly.

• Ask how your plan will be maintained and evolved.

• Request clarity on communication and process.

This Year

• Re-evaluate the relationship after experiencing real interactions.

• Make changes only if confidence is missing.

Schedule a Conversation

It's advisable to meet with several possible financial partners; the fit has to feel right! And of course, our team would welcome an opportunity to help provide continuity to your financial plan!

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Gentian Financial | 12740 N River Road, Mequon Wi 53092 | PH 262-518-7575

Any opinions are those of Gentian Financial and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. Hypothetical examples are for illustrative purposes only. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. and Gentian Financial Inc. Gentian Financial, Inc. is not a registered broker/dealer, and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.