Edward Jones reviews

Medical benefits terrible- very high deductible low commission payout during entire phase of career low compensation compared to similar firms make a decision to leave, and they turn on you like a wild dog very political, need to take over existing office to have good shot at making grade first year I was a very good performer by their metrics, and still was let go due to politics lip service that they do what's best for the client, but the advising process and product offerings do not reflect that

Your "own business" is not really the case. I was technically an employee and therefore the book of business is really Jones'...not yours to pick up and take where ever you may choose in the future. I didn't do my homework well enough on how Advisors are paid (fee for service (hourly/project), % of assets under management, or commission on the sale of a product). At the time I was primarily limited to selling a product (mutual fund, stock, etf, bond, insurance) and the fee-based possibilities required at least $500k to get started. Since then, they have launched a fee-based platform which I have heard the Advisors appreciate. In my current situation I can do all three, giving me the flexibility to be compensated in the way that makes the most sense for my client. This is a tough business to get started. Perhaps optimal if you are young, single and financially flexible OR if you have some significant savings in place OR if you have a spouse that can support you while you build an income.