Financial Planners Put Your Goals Within Reach (NAPSA)—TIfyou’re contemplating retirement, buying a home, a child’s education or eliminating debt to get on the path to saving, you may find that a competent and ethical financial planner can help you reach those goals. The financial planning process involves gathering relevant financial information, examining your current financial status, set- ting life goals and developing an appropriate strategy. Choosing a financial planneris a critical decision, so take the time and careto select a trustworthy financial planner, one on whom you can depend for professional advice and services. One of the most trusted credentials for financial advisers is CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER", or CFP certification, which is eranted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) to individuals who meet its rigorous standards of Financial planners can play a centralrole in helping you meet yourlife goals and developing your plan. In that case, get their names and check their backgrounds. petent, qualified professional with whom you feel comfortable and 6. How will I pay for your services? The financial planner should put this in writing. Planners can be salaried by their company, receive fees based on an 1. What is your experience? your assets or may earn commissions from products theysell. achieve financial well-being. whosestyle suits your needs. Questions to Ask Ask about the planner’s work experience and current practice. 2. What are your qualifica- tions? Ask what credentials and licenses the planner has earned. A CFP mark is widely viewed as the premier financial planning designation. Look for experience in insurance, tax planning, investments, estate planning or retirement planning. 3. What services do you offer? Generally, financial planners can- not sell insurance or products such as mutual funds or stocks hourly or flat rate, a percentage of 7. How much do you charge? While the amount will depend on your needs, the financial planner should be able to estimateall pos- sible costs. 8. Will your recommenda- tions be influenced by other considerations? Ask about any possible con- flicts of interest. 9. Have you ever been publicly disciplined for any unlawful or unethical actions in your professional career? Government and self-regulatory organizations, education, examination, experi- without the proper licenses or “A financial plan allows you to registered with state or federal keep records on the disciplinary 4. What’s your approach to financial planning? Some planners develop a plan that brings advisers. ence andethics. take charge of your choices and achieve a sense of financial wellbeing,” says David G. Strege, CFP, and chair of CFP Board’s Board of Directors. “It allows you to understand how each financial decision affects other areas of your finances.” How to Choose a Planner Interview and evaluate several financial planners to find a com- give investment advice unless authorities. together all of your financial goals. Others provide advice on specific areas. 5. Will you be the only person working with me? The planner may have attorneys, insurance agents or tax specialists assist in state insurance and securities departments and CFP Board history of financial planners and 10. Can I have it in writing? Get a written agreement detailing the services provided. Learn More You can find more information about CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER”professionals at www.CFP.net or (800) 487-1497.
