Once you become an adult, it’s apparent that making money isn’t as tough as we originally thought it was when we were children. Don’t get me wrong; it’s still a privilege to earn funds, and it still poses a challenge, but the real problem is maintaining them!
That’s where a financial planner comes in! These professionals can lend their expertise to help you achieve your financial goals to help you enrol your children in the city’s best private schools, pay your mortgage, etc.
I used to spend all of my earnings on things I couldn’t buy when I was a kid but thanks to my financial planner, I could navigate the world of finances much better. To help you find your partner in finance, here are some of the most reliable financial planners we found in Ottawa:
How much do financial planners charge in Ottawa?
Financial planners in Ottawa usually charge per hour, costing anywhere around 150 CAD to 400 CAD or more depending on their experience and the service required by the client.
Alternatively, they could charge a percentage of the funds they’re managing, which can range from 0.5% to 2% per year.
1. Kevin Potvin – Potvin Financial Services

Services: Investment planning, insurance planning, retirement transition planning, estate planning
Location: 117 Centrepointe Dr Unit #320, Ottawa, ON K2G 5X3, Canada
Contact: +1 613-224-6561
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Kevin Potvin immediately caught our attention during our research because of his 20+ years of experience in personal finance. He’s also a second-generation advisor, which further grew our confidence knowing that he learned the ropes from another experienced planner.
One of the things we like about Kevin is that he’s honest, as highlighted by his past clients whom we interviewed. He’s transparent about not making stock market predictions and instead focuses on long-term and diversified investment solutions.
His wide area of expertise also piqued our attention, as we discovered that he can lend his expertise to investment and estate planning. Moreover, he can help set up clients for retirement by suggesting risk-based investments.
We also appreciate how Kevin and the rest of his team offer flexible payment options where clients can choose between commission-based or fee-based services.
Our only gripe is that their offices are closed on weekends. We do want to note, however, that they’re always a call away when they’re operational.
Professional, knowledgeable and trustworthy
“Kevin Potvin and his team at Potvin Financial Services are amazing when it comes to taking care of your investments. Kevin and his team are Professional, Knowledgeable and Trustworthy.
I started with Potvin Financial in September 2023 and have nothing but success in my investments. I look forward to a strong finish in 2024. Kevin and his team are very approachable and available. Thanks, Kevin and Team!”
-Jeff Parke, Google Review
Would not hesitate to recommend
“We have been dealing with Kevin for many many years and only have good things to say. Kevin and his team deliver professional financial planning services and put their client’s interests first.
We would not hesitate to recommend Kevin and his team to our family and friends.”
-Anik Tracey, Google Review
2. Gabriel Lalonde – MDL Financial Group

Services: Tax planning, insurance coverage, retirement planning, employee benefits
Location: 78 George St Suite 204M, Ottawa, ON K1N 5W1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-416-9649
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Gabriel Lalonde was recommended to us by a friend who recently availed of their retirement planning services. Our friend highlighted how Gabriel and his team did a great job at listening to his financial goals and created a tailored retirement plan that coincided with that very goal.
A big plus in our books is that they offer free initial consultation. This way, the client won’t have to pay a single penny until the advisor recommends a solution.
We’ve heard from several of their past clients that they really take the time during the consultation to get to know their clients. Plus, they noted how great Gabriel is at constantly providing updates, which is a great thing to look for in an advisor.
Furthermore, they only charge a single fee for their services. Their wide array of services is also impressive, offering solutions for financial, estate and retirement planning.
However, we do wish that they could extend their services throughout the weekend. During their office hours, however, you can expect them to be instantly reachable through their channels.
Extremely pleased with the level of expertise
“I highly recommend MDL Financial Group if you are looking for a financial advisor. Gabriel and Ruth provide next-level service, are professional, listen to your needs, are knowledgeable about investment plans, help you plan for your future, and are always available.
I am extremely pleased with the level of expertise and service they have provided me. Thank you so much, Gabriel and Ruth!”
-Deena Deachman, Google Review
Hands-on approach has been refreshing
“As my wife and I were looking for an Ottawa Financial Advisor, we landed on this firm by chance and are we ever happy we did. Coming from a bank where nobody ever kept in touch with us, their hands-on approach has been refreshing.
They truly take the time to get to know their clients which gives us confidence that not only our financial goals are well understood but also our level of comfort. They provide us with regular updates and have always been available to answer questions or to explain our options.
We are happy to say that we now feel a sense of security we never had before transferring out assets from the bank to this company.”
-Ross Kirwan, Google Review
3. Jason Dugan – Aspire Wealth Group

Services: Investment management, retirement planning, estate planning implementation
Location: 160 Terence Matthews Crescent Unit A, Kanata, ON K2M 0B2, Canada
Contact: +1 613-254-8484
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Jason Dugan was one of our first prospects on this list because of his resume, being in the industry for more than 20 years now. Moreover, we were also impressed by the accolades he garnered over the years, which include the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors in 2024.
Accolades aside, we discovered from Dugan’s past clients that he’s also personable, exuding professionalism during their many phone calls. He’s also able to explain complex finance situations and terms clearly.
His communication skills and expertise are showcased in their services, namely: education, retirement, financial planning and investment management.
Out of all his services, however, one that stood out was his investment management. He and his team do a great job of diversifying their clients’ portfolios, often providing alternative investments using their years of experience.
However, we did notice that his offered services are a bit limited compared to other financial planners in the area. Although one could easily view this as a quality over quantity type of situation.
Impressed by their professionalism and dedication
“As a client of Aspire Wealth Group for several years, I cannot speak highly enough of their services. From the moment I first engaged with them, I was impressed by their professionalism and dedication.
I have been in contact with most of the team there and they always go above and beyond to ensure that I am not only satisfied but also well-informed about my financial options.
They have provided me with invaluable guidance and advice that has helped me navigate various financial decisions with confidence.
Overall, I would highly recommend Aspire Wealth Group to anyone seeking personalized financial advice and support. They have consistently demonstrated their commitment to their clients, and I am grateful to have them as my trusted advisors!
Thank you, Cedric, Jason and the team!”
-Mandy Boyd, Google Review
Everything was handled very efficiently
“I’m self-employed and have previously tried to get a health benefits plan in place. I had been denied coverage for my pre-existing conditions.
Aspire Wealth Group helped set me up with a good alternative. My interactions have been really pleasant, and everything was handled very efficiently.”
-Christina Najjar, Google Review
4. Mitch McLean – McLean Wealth Creation

Services: Wealth creation, tax planning, investment management, retirement planning
Location: 1565 Carling Ave Suite 610, Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-728-0101 ext. 224
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Mitch McLean is a solid option if you’re looking to build your wealth because of his comprehensive plans. These plans are done expertly by McLean, as he does a great job of analyzing each situation uniquely, allowing him to think of the best strategy for each client.
This tailor-made approach is highlighted by his previous clients, with some noting that they felt listened to during their conversation.
From what we’ve seen, Mitch and his team are up to date with changes in financial markets, allowing them to make the smartest decisions. With Mitch, in particular, we feel like his 16+ years of experience in the field lends to his wise investment solutions.
The only problem with booking his services is the pricey rates. Also, we wish that they could carry over their business hours through the weekend since not a lot of people have free time throughout the weekdays.
Incredibly patient
“Mitch and his team have been amazing! Professional, deeply knowledgeable, and highly responsive! I am new to the investment world and he and his team have been incredibly patient, explaining every term and every option until I understand.
I entirely trust them to support my financial goals and future .. and I’m so very grateful to have them on my side.”
-Erin Leigh, Google Review
Only have positive things to say about him
“I’ve been working with Mitch for quite a few years now and I only have positive things to say about him. Not only has he helped me achieve many financial goals already, but he is also knowledgeable, quick to respond to any concerns I have and overall great to work with.
I highly recommend him!”
-Emma Tripp, Google Review
5. Joe Bilyk – Bilyk Financial

Services: Investment management, risk management, estate and legacy planning, insurance, tax planning
Location: 4769 50 Ave, Vegreville, AB T9C 1L1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-632-6770
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
When it comes to years of experience, Joe Bilk is one of the most tenured guys to trust with finances. With more than 30 years of experience under his belt and an impressive track record, he immediately piqued our interest.
Something that we were highly impressed with was Bilyk’s 99% client retention rate, which is a testament to how they build rapport with their clients.
Also, we’ve sat down with some of their current clients, and they’ve highlighted Bilyk’s customer service, from their responsiveness to their positive approach to investment management.
We also wanted to highlight their solid selection of services, which ranges from investment management to tax planning and more. One particular service that caught our eye was legacy planning, which helps clients secure their future generation.
One thing we wish they could change is their rates since they’re a bit too high. Fortunately, they make up for it by providing free initial consultations.
Competent, attentive and personable
“The team at Bilyk Financial has been excellent to work with. Competent, attentive, personalized and personable, we have always felt that our best interests and success were the drivers for decisions, recommendations and advice.
We have had nothing but great experiences in the 15 years we’ve been working with them.”
-Jessica C, Google Review
Very happy with the approach and attention to detail
“We have dealt with Adam and Joe for several years and have always been impressed with their customer service, responsiveness, and positive approach to managing our investments. They definitely stand out amongst financial advisors in our view.”
-Raylene Palichuk, Google Review