Most advisory firms won't take you on unless your portfolio hits a certain size—typically $250K to $500K, though it ranges from $0 to $5M+.
Why minimums exist
Simple math: at 1% of assets, a $100K portfolio generates $1,000/year in fees. That's not enough to cover the cost of comprehensive, personalized service. Higher minimums also mean fewer clients, which means more time per client.
Typical ranges
| Minimum | What you'll find |
|---|---|
| $0–$100K | Newer advisors, hourly/flat-fee planners, robo-advisors |
| $250K–$500K | Most traditional RIAs—the industry standard |
| $1M+ | Established advisors, comprehensive wealth management |
| $5M+ | Family offices, ultra-high-net-worth specialists |
The minimum doesn't tell the whole story
An advisor with a $250K minimum but a $2M average client portfolio is really targeting millionaires—the minimum is just there for exceptions. Use both “Min Investment” and “Avg Client Portfolio” filters together to find advisors where you'd be a typical client, not an outlier.
What if you're below the minimum?
- Hourly advisors: Pay for planning without meeting AUM requirements
- Flat-fee firms: Annual retainers regardless of portfolio size
- Newer advisors: Often have lower minimums while building their practice
- Negotiate: Some advisors waive minimums for younger clients with high earning potential
Find advisors you qualify for
$500K
$0$250K$500K$5M$10M