Myth

Reality

My practice isn’t large enough

RIAs span across all asset and production levels

The transition is too hard and I will lose clients and revenue

It’s a big commitment, yes. But most advisors have very successful transitions and many report a growth in revenue within the first two years*

I will have to give up my securities licenses and commissionable business

You can choose the hybrid model, which lets you be independent and maintain your licenses. That way, you can conduct both fee- and commission-based business

If I go independent I may make less money and lose my retirement plan

Independent firms’ economic structures can be designed to allow advisors to keep 100% of their revenue while working to build business equity that can be monetized upon retirement

As an independent RIA, I will not have access to robust technology

RIAs have access to a vast selection of fintech options designed to help them save time and better serve their clients. Check out our tech offerings and see how they compare

I won’t have access to a broad range of investment products

By becoming an independent RIA, you have the ability to select the investment products most appropriate for your clients. Asset custodians often try and work with RIAs to add new investment vehicles to their product lineup

It will be cumbersome and difficult for me to establish myself as an RIA

With TD Ameritrade Institutional, you’ll have systems, processes, and people to help you realize your vision for independence