Picking the right financial advisor in Kansas City can feel like a big deal, and that’s because it is. For business owners trying to grow, manage taxes, and make better money decisions, the person giving financial advice can really help set the pace. This isn’t just about picking someone who looks good on paper. It’s about finding someone who understands how your business runs, what your goals are, and how to help move things forward without confusion or guesswork.
A good financial advisor doesn’t just talk about retirement plans or where to invest. They should be asking about your income streams, your write-off strategy, and how to use your money in a way that supports both growth and savings. If you’re looking to feel more in control of your money this year, here’s what to focus on when choosing a financial advisor in Kansas City who actually gets small business needs.
Look for Someone Who Understands Business Finances
Running a business means juggling payroll, cash flow, taxes, and sometimes surprise expenses. Not every advisor has lived in that mindset. Some only focus on investment portfolios and miss the day-to-day decisions business owners have to make.
Look for someone who:
• Understands how businesses make and spend money during the year
• Can connect short-term spending with long-term financial goals
• Talks about how tax planning, income, and budgeting all work together
You’ll want someone who checks in more than once a year and doesn’t just show up with reports you don’t understand. The right advisor will know how to make the numbers make sense in your real day-to-day work. That way, decisions about hiring, equipment, or expansions come from a plan, not from guessing. At Derks Financial, our advisory process includes regular financial checkups and full-service planning so you stay informed all year.
Ask How They Approach Write-Offs and Tax Strategy
Write-offs are one of the biggest ways a financial advisor can make a difference. Every expense, from buying equipment to signing up for training, has the potential to lower your tax bill. But it only works if your advisor knows how to time and structure those expenses.
We always listen carefully when evaluating how well an advisor:
• Talks about what kinds of purchases can lead to savings
• Helps plan big expenses around income and timing
• Looks for deductions that match your business setup
This isn’t just about saving money at year-end. A smart plan can shape when to buy, what to spend, and how to lower tax payments in a way that feels manageable. If you’re not hearing these types of conversations early on, it may be a sign they’re not thinking about your day-to-day cash decisions. Our team at Derks Financial offers business tax planning, specialized consulting, and preparation services so you can make the most out of every deduction legally available.
Make Sure Their Advice Fits Your Kansas City Business
Where your business is located still matters. Rules about taxes, permits, and payments can change depending on your city or region. That's why having someone who works with small businesses in the Kansas City area can really help.
Try asking if they:
• Work with other small business owners in Kansas City, Missouri, or nearby
• Stay on top of deadlines and state-specific financial rules
• Have local contacts if you need legal or operational input
Sometimes just knowing when certain filings are due or what types of plans work best for Kansas City’s small business environment can make things easier. A good advisor should be bringing this knowledge into the conversation, not waiting for you to bring it up. Derks Financial is based in Lee’s Summit and supports businesses throughout the Kansas City metro with in-depth regional expertise.
Find Out What Ongoing Help Looks Like
One of the things we hear from business owners is that they feel like they’re only getting half the help they need. Maybe their advisor sets up something once, but then disappears. Or maybe they’re not around when cash flow shifts or a new opportunity pops up.
Before you commit to anyone long-term, ask:
• How often you’ll meet and what those updates include
• What happens if tax laws change mid-year or your business adds a new service
• Whether your advisor gives tips during business shifts like hiring or reworking structure
The right kind of help shows up before you get stuck. A business grows and shifts throughout the year. You want someone who helps you respond to change with clarity, not someone who points out mistakes after the fact.
Know You’re Not Just Picking a Number Cruncher
The advisor you choose shouldn’t talk only about last year’s profits or one investment plan. They should be asking where you want your business to go and how the money you earn can help make that happen. You’re not just hiring someone to input numbers. You’re building a relationship with someone who should help connect your decisions with a long-term plan.
The right financial advisor in Kansas City should:
• Take time to learn how your business works
• Talk to you like a partner, not like a form filler
• Share ideas that help you feel more in control of your finances

Business Advisory That Works Year-Round
Choosing a financial advisor is really about picking someone you can trust with your goals. Not just because they’re good with numbers, but because they know how to translate those numbers into smart moves that work for your business. When that connection is strong, the results show up everywhere, from your tax filings to your confidence in growth.
Ready to take control of your business finances with a trusted partner by your side? Discover how afinancial advisor in Kansas City can help you navigate the complexities of tax planning and financial strategies tailored to your unique needs. At Derks Financial, we're here to provide the guidance and clarity you need for sustainable growth and confidence in every financial decision. Contact us today to start your journey toward smarter, stress-free financial management.
