Fiduciary Standards at First Command | First Command

Service Above Self-Interest

The Role of a Fiduciary

Fulfilling Our Fiduciary Duties

At First Command, we seek to inspire client confidence through ethical, professional financial planning.

People deserve to have confidence in the individuals and institutions they entrust to with their money. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm, First Command is held to a fiduciary standard in all of our client relationships. That means we have a legal obligation to always put our clients’ interests before our own when providing advice and financial recommendations.

Every First Command Advisor is committed to fulfilling key fiduciary duties:

The objective is to deliver unbiased advice that is appropriate for each client’s unique situation and goals, ensure trust and transparency, and provide the confidence and peace of mind that come from partnering with a knowledgeable professional who puts your interests first.

They take the time to fully understand each client’s financial situation, needs and goals.
They exercise prudence in making informed, diligent, and sound recommendations to clients.
They fully disclose all fees, any potential conflicts of interest, or other material information.
They keep clients’ personal information private and secure.

Additional Licenses and Credentials

All First Command Financial Advisors also hold and maintain the appropriate and required combination of these licenses to perform their duties:

A Series 6, to sell certain packaged products like mutual funds and variable annuities
A Series 63 license, a state-level securities license typically paired with Series 6
A Series 65 license, to offer financial planning services and provide investment advice for a fee and also typically paired with a Series 6
A Series 7 license, to sell individual securities of all types, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs and UITs
A Series 66 license, to offer financial planning services and provide investment advice for a fee and typically paired with a Series 7
A health insurance license, which authorizes them to sell health plans, disability insurance and long-term care insurance
A life insurance license, to sell term life, whole life, final expense policies and annuities

Earning and maintaining these licenses demonstrates a distinct level of proficiency — because each one requires formal testing, meeting regulatory requirements and ongoing education. Our Advisors must thoroughly understand financial products, comply with state and federal regulations, and meet ethical standards to maintain these credentials.

Though it is not an industry requirement, many of our Advisors have also earned the Certified Military Financial Advisor designation as a way to further strengthen their knowledge of financial planning issues specific to service members and their families. In addition, they receive ongoing company training on a wide range of topics, from evolving product offerings to updates in military benefits. This continuous education helps them stay current and better equips them to serve the needs of military families.

Registration as an Investment Advisor with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of each fund before investing. This and other important information is contained in the prospectus, which may be obtained by contacting your financial advisor or by calling First Command. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.