MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS
About MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS
MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS is listed in our database based on their SEC registration. They are not a fiduciary, meaning they aren't legally required to act in your best interest. This doesn't make them dishonest, but it means they may recommend products that earn them commissions.
In 19 years of operation, MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS has zero complaints or disciplinary actions — a spotless regulatory record. They earn commissions on product sales, creating a potential conflict of interest — always ask what they make from any recommendation.
One thing to watch: they're affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they can earn commissions beyond their stated fees. Ask them to disclose all compensation in writing. Bottom line: We recommend interviewing at least 2-3 other advisors in ALPHARETTA before committing to MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS. Their risk profile suggests extra caution.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS
“What is your all-in fee, including fund expenses?”
Their disclosed model is commission. Ask for the total cost including underlying fund fees, trading costs, and any platform charges.
“Are you a fiduciary at all times — not just sometimes?”
MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS is not registered as a fiduciary. This means they can legally recommend products that benefit them more than you. Ask them to sign a fiduciary pledge in writing.
“How are you compensated when you recommend a specific product?”
This firm earns commissions on product sales. Ask exactly how much they make on each recommendation and whether a no-commission alternative exists.
“Can I see your Form ADV Part 2A brochure before our next meeting?”
This is the legal disclosure document that details fees, conflicts, and disciplinary history. Every SEC-registered advisor must provide it. Read it before signing anything.
Compensation Model
Compensation type disclosed on SEC Form ADV Item 5C. Filed 46112. Specific fee percentages are available in this firm's Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Conflict of Interest Analysis
Broker-Dealer Affiliated: Yes
This firm is affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they may earn commissions on product sales — creating a potential conflict between their revenue and your best interest.
Insurance Licensed: Yes
This firm can sell insurance products (annuities, life insurance). This creates an incentive to recommend these products even when alternatives may be more appropriate.
Custody per Form ADV Item 9: Yes
SEC Form ADV Item 9 reports that this adviser is deemed to have "custody" of some client assets under Rule 206(4)-2. This is a broad regulatory term that includes situations where client assets sit at an independent qualified custodian (e.g., Schwab, Fidelity) but the adviser has authority to deduct advisory fees, or has a standing letter of authorization on the account. It does not, on its own, mean the adviser physically holds client assets. See the firm's ADV filing on adviserinfo.sec.gov for the specifics.
Proprietary Products: No
Uses only third-party investment products. No proprietary product conflicts.
Regulatory & Disciplinary History
Clean Record
No disciplinary events, regulatory actions, or customer complaints on file with the SEC or FINRA. This firm has maintained a spotless regulatory record for 19 years.
Firm Details
| Legal Name | MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS |
| CRD Number | #142457 |
| SEC Registered | Yes |
| Registration Date | 2007-01-31 |
| States Registered | GA |
| Assets Under Management | $23.9B |
| Number of Clients | 229 |
| Employees | 470 |
| Compensation Type | commission |
| Last ADV Filing | 46112 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS a fiduciary?
No. MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS is not registered as an RIA and is not legally bound by the fiduciary standard.
How does MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS charge clients?
MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS uses a commission compensation model. They also earn commissions on product sales, which may create conflicts of interest. Full fee details are in their Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Does MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS have any complaints?
No. MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS has zero complaints or disciplinary actions on file with the SEC or FINRA across 19 years of operation.
How does MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS compare to other advisors in ALPHARETTA?
MERIT FINANCIAL ADVISORS has a Trust Score of 61/100. There are 33 registered advisory firms in ALPHARETTA. Use our city page to compare firms side by side.
Where does this data come from?
All information is sourced from SEC Form ADV public filings (mandatory regulatory disclosures) and FINRA BrokerCheck records. Last updated: 2026-06-24. We do not accept payment from financial advisors.
Data source: SEC Form ADV (Parts 1 and 2A) filed with the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD). Filing date: 46112. Last data refresh: 2026-06-24. AdvisorRanked does not verify the accuracy of SEC filings. This is not financial advice.