Should I Start a Family Office? Readiness Score

Answer 20 yes or no questions to score how ready your family is to start a single family office, and get a gap list linked to the step of the How to Start a Family Office guide that closes each gap. Free, no login, and nothing you type leaves your browser.

Attendees in conversation at a Family Office Club event — Photo: Family Office Club

Check every statement that is true for your family

Our investable assets are at least $50 million.

Our investable assets are at least $100 million.

We hold several asset types (operating companies, real estate, private deals, public portfolios).

The family has written down its values, goals and what the wealth is for.

The key family members agree that a family office is wanted.

We know who will lead the office day to day.

We have an annual operating budget in mind.

We have discussed the legal entity and location with an attorney.

Our CPA has reviewed the tax side of the structure.

We have a short list of service providers (custody, legal, tax, reporting).

We have a written investment policy or target allocation.

We plan an investment committee or advisory board.

We have rules for who decides what (governance).

The next generation is included in planning.

We have a plan for sourcing and filtering deal flow.

We have written processes for payments, wires and approvals.

We know what consolidated reporting we want each month or quarter.

We have decided how public or private the office will be.

A family member can commit regular time to oversight.

We have talked with other family offices about how they run.

Your Results

Your readiness score

Where you stand

Your biggest gaps

How the Calculator Works

Each question carries a weight based on how much it matters in How to Start a Family Office. Wealth level and a written family compass carry the most weight, followed by leadership, investment policy and governance. Your score is the share of weighted points you checked. The gap list shows the heaviest unchecked items first, each linked to the matching step of the How to Start a Family Office guide.

A low score does not mean you should never build an office. It usually means a virtual family office or an outside advisor is the better first move while you close the gaps.

Assumptions and Sources

Questions and weights follow the 12 chapters of How to Start a Family Office. Source: How to Start a Family Office, by Richard C. Wilson
Wealth checkpoints of $50 million and $100 million follow the book's discussion of lean virtual offices and full offices. Source: How to Start a Family Office, by Richard C. Wilson

Questions About This Calculator

Is my answer stored?

No. The score is calculated in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere unless you choose to email yourself the results.

What score should I aim for?

80 or more means most foundations are in place. Between 55 and 80, fill the gaps before you hire.

Informational only, not financial, legal or tax advice. Confirm figures with your own advisors.