Should I Change My Financial Advisor When I Move to a New State?
Relocating to a new state can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether your move is to be closer to family, to enjoy retirement in a new climate, or simply to embrace a fresh chapter of life, one question often arises for retirees: Should I change my financial advisor when I move?
The answer isn’t always simple, but moving presents a natural opportunity to reflect on whether your current advisor is still the best fit for you. Here’s a guide to help you think through the decision.
Consider Licensing & Regulation
Financial advisors must be registered in the states where they serve clients. Some advisors are licensed in multiple states, but not all are. If your advisor cannot continue serving you in your new state, you’ll need to make a change. Even if they can, it may be worth considering whether a local advisor who understands your new state’s tax rules and retirement landscape could provide added value.
2. Revisit the Advisor Relationship
Your financial advisor should be more than someone who manages your investments. They should be a trusted partner who helps you navigate life’s transitions. A move is a perfect time to ask: Do I feel truly supported, understood, and guided in my retirement goals? If your advisor hasn’t been proactive in adapting your plan or anticipating your needs, your relocation may be the right moment to find someone who will.
3. The Value of Local Expertise
If your advisor lives in another state, they may not fully understand the unique financial landscape here in Washington. Our state has its own tax rules, such as estate and capital gains taxes, that can affect your long-term plans in very real ways. Working with a local advisor means you have someone who not only knows these rules but also partners with nearby CPAs and attorneys to help you navigate them with confidence. Just as importantly, it gives you easier access to in-person conversations and a trusted relationship close to home.
If you’ve moved to Bellingham, Washington or the surrounding counties, Skyline Advisors provides fiduciary financial planning rooted in both wisdom and care. We believe your financial plan should reflect both your personal goals and the realities of Washington law, so you can move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
4. Planning for The Long-Term
Retirement isn’t just about managing money. It’s about crafting a well-lived life. From income strategies and tax planning to healthcare decisions and legacy goals, your advisor should walk beside you through it all. A move is a chance to ensure you have the right advisor for the journey ahead.
5. Questions to Ask Yourself
Is my current advisor licensed to serve me in my new state?
Am I receiving the level of care and personal attention I want?
Would I benefit from an advisor who understands Washington’s financial and legal landscape?
Does my advisor know the local professionals to help with taxes and your estate?
Does my advisor inspire confidence for this next stage of life?
The Bottom Line
Moving to a new state doesn’t automatically mean you must change your advisor. However, it is a perfect opportunity to re-evaluate whether you should. If your advisor no longer feels like the right partner for this season, transitioning to someone local who combines fiduciary expertise with genuine care may be a wise decision.
At Skyline Advisors, based in Bellingham, Washington, we help retirees navigate transitions with confidence and clarity. We believe success is measured not just by returns on accounts, but by returns on life. If you’re moving to Washington, or already here, and seeking a financial advisor who will guide you with wisdom, care, and local expertise, we’d be honored to walk alongside you.
Considering a Change?
Connect with Skyline Advisors in Bellingham, WA, and let’s build a future of freedom and fulfillment together.
Schedule a consultation today
(360) 671-1621
www.skylineadvisors.com
The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax, or estate planning advice. Skyline Advisors, Inc. is an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where representatives of Skyline Advisors, Inc. are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. If indices are referenced in marketing material, it is important to note that these cannot be invest in directly, any vehicle such as Passive index-based ETFs and Mutual Funds which attempt to replicate indices have internal expense ratios and other associated costs that would negatively impact returns. No advice may be rendered unless a client service agreement is in place. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital.