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Independent Financial Advisor Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Financial Advisor

Menomonee Falls, WI · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

... Financial Advisor to join the team ... Founded in 2010, e2 Retirement Consulting, LLC is an independent advising firm headquartered in ...

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Financial Advisor

Appleton, WI · On-site

$137K - $250K/yr

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Financial Advisor

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$61K - $250K/yr

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

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Independent Financial Advisor information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.3K

$103.1K

$145.3K

How much do independent financial advisor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent financial advisor in Wisconsin is $103,090.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $132,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent financial advisor?

Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) are professionals who provide impartial financial advice to clients. Unlike advisors tied to a single provider or company, IFAs can recommend products from across the entire market, ensuring that their advice is unbiased and tailored to the client's individual needs and circumstances. They help with areas such as investments, pensions, insurance, and retirement planning. To operate, IFAs must be appropriately qualified and authorized by relevant regulatory bodies in their country. Working with an IFA can help clients make informed financial decisions and achieve their long-term financial goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent financial advisor?

To thrive as an Independent Financial Advisor, you need a strong grasp of financial planning, investment strategies, and regulatory compliance, typically backed by a relevant degree and certifications such as CFP or Series 65. Familiarity with financial planning software, portfolio management tools, and CRM systems is essential for effective client management. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and ethical judgment help build trust and long-term client relationships. These skills are crucial for delivering tailored financial solutions, maintaining client confidence, and ensuring regulatory adherence.

What are some common challenges independent financial advisors face when building their client base?

Independent Financial Advisors often encounter challenges related to establishing credibility and trust with potential clients, especially when starting out or transitioning from a larger firm. Building a client base requires effective networking, proactive outreach, and ongoing relationship management. Advisors must also differentiate their services in a competitive market, comply with regulatory requirements, and stay updated on financial products to provide tailored advice. Success in this role depends on persistence, strong communication skills, and a commitment to delivering value to clients.

What is the difference between Independent Financial Advisor vs Financial Planner?

AspectIndependent Financial AdvisorFinancial Planner
CredentialsCFP, CFA, or similar certifications often requiredCFP, ChFC, or similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTypically self-employed or with independent firmsEmployed by firms, banks, or as independent consultants
Services OfferedPersonalized investment advice, financial planning, estate planningComprehensive financial planning, including investments, retirement, estate
Client FocusIndividual clients seeking tailored adviceIndividuals and families needing holistic financial plans

While both roles involve providing financial advice, Independent Financial Advisors often operate independently and may offer more personalized, flexible services. Financial Planners typically work within firms or organizations, focusing on comprehensive financial plans. The choice depends on your specific financial needs and preferred working relationship.

Can you work independently as an independent financial advisor?

Yes, independent financial advisors often work independently or as part of a small firm, providing personalized financial planning and investment advice. They typically need relevant certifications such as the Series 7 and Series 66, and may operate with flexible schedules, often managing their own client base and business operations.

Do independent financial advisors make good money?

Independent financial advisors typically earn income through fees and commissions, with earnings varying based on client base, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual income ranges from $60,000 to over $100,000, with top earners making significantly more. Success often depends on strong sales skills, certifications like the CFP, and building a loyal client portfolio.

How much does an independent financial advisor earn?

An independent financial advisor's earnings typically range from $50,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, client base, and location. Successful advisors often earn commissions, fees, or a combination of both, and certifications like the CFP can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Wisconsin?

For Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Independent Financial Advisor job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,090 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

$36K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Thrivent rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Meaningful work. Rewarding career.
Thrivent is a different kind of financial services firm, one that puts generosity at the center of saving and investing. Here, you'll make an impact in the lives of the people you serve, helping them build, grow and protect financial well-being through purpose-based advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity.
Wisconsin Heartland Associates is an independent financial services practice of Thrivent in Stoughton, WI. We are growing and adding an Associate Financial Advisor to our team, which serves over 1,500 clients with a focus on holistic financial planning, investment management, risk management, and retirement planning. This is a full-time role that requires you to be in the office working with the team 5 days per week.

As an Associate Financial Advisor, you'll be a resource for our financial advisors and provide support to the clients of Wisconsin Heartland Associates including:

  • Handle sensitive communications with members/customers, which may include highly confidential information and effectively respond through verbal and written communications to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction
  • Counsel and advise prospective and current members/customers on suitable financial products and investment advisory services
  • Obtain member/customer financial and/or suitability information
  • Accepting and/or entering securities trade orders from customers, including unsolicited trade orders
  • Explain, discuss or interpret insurance coverage; analyze exposures or policies; provide recommendations
  • Assist financial representatives in the preparation and follow up for the member/customer meetings
  • Additional responsibilities may be assigned in accordance with licensure and business needs
  • Meet with prospects and/or current clients to review products and generate potential new business.

You will be employed/contracted by Wisconsin Heartland Associates

Desired Characteristics

Our culture and our people are special. We're looking for people who are - or want to become - part of the communities where clients live, work and worship. Our ideal candidate is:

  • Analytical thinker working on planning and organizing financial plans.
  • Customer Focused with interpersonal skills for clear communication.
  • Adaptable and flexible to work in a collaborative team environment.
  • Ambitious with Intellectual curiosity and drive.

Requirements

  • Securities (Series 7 and 66 or Series 7, 63 and 65) and resident state Life, Health and Annuities registration
  • Satisfactory background check, fingerprinting and securities registration and/or insurance licensing verification, if applicable.
  • Must be securities registered/insurance licensed/appointed in all states in which the candidate will be doing support work for the sponsoring financial advisor. Must be willing to complete appropriate state training in order to sell Long Term Care if this is determined to be a part of the position or support needs on the sponsoring financial representative.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and maintain a high quality of work while experiencing frequent interruptions
  • Ability to maintain integrity of sensitive/confidential information

External/Internal Dependencies

  • Must be able to work with all roles of the sponsoring financial advisor
  • Must be able to represent the organization in work with external clients
  • Must be able to cultivate and maintain relationships with outside organizations

Thrivent Investment Management is the sponsor for FINRA registration, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is the sponsor for insurance licensure.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Base salary of $36,000, along with a percentage of commissions from sales generated revenue.
  • 401(k)

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that, with its subsidiary and affiliate companies, serves more than 2.4 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs. For more than 100 years, Thrivent has been helping Christians build their financial futures and live more generous lives. Today, Thrivent is a not-for-profit, membership-owned Fortune 500 company with $194 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/24). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody's Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent's financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance.

To learn more about the privacy of your information, visit ourworkforce privacy policy at thrivent.com/privacy.

Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA's Broker Check for more information about our financial advisors.

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Thrivent provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. This policy applies to all employees and job applicants.

Thrivent is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please let us know by sending an email tohuman.resources@thrivent.comor call800-847-4836and request Human Resources.


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