How to Find the Most Suitable Financial Planner
Making the right decisions with your money is an important step toward achieving financial security and a secure future. Just as more people are relying on online tools to manage their own finances, they are also relying on professionals to help them make the best decisions. A financial planner can provide guidance with wealth-building, retirement planning, estate planning and other financial decisions you make in life. With so many choices and qualification levels, however, it’s important to understand how to find the right financial planner to meet your needs.
Start With Your Goals
Once you begin your search, you first need to decide what you have in mind. Do you need help with retirement planning or navigating a complex family financial situation? Are you looking for a financial planner to initiate a wealth-building strategy? You need to express your long-term financial goals and your short-term needs to the financial planner before you move forward.
Do the Research
Not all financial planners are created equal. Just as you are looking for someone to guide your money decisions, you want to be sure the person you choose meets certain qualifications. In the United States, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is someone who has a bachelor’s degree, passed an exam and agreed to follow a code of ethics. Some additional credentials can include:
Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)
Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
Once you have identified individuals with the right qualifications, research their background and customer service. Check customer reviews and read any complaints that are registered with the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). Contact past clients to ask about their experience with the financial planner.
Look for a Good Fit
Finding the right financial planner is not only a matter of qualifications, but also a matter of establishing a personal connection. You should choose someone who has your best interests at heart, who communicates well and who understands you and your needs. The financial planner should be up-front about compensation and fees, response time and how the planning process will be handled. Ask questions about their investment strategy and portfolio management, how they create a plan for unusual circumstances and how do they keep track of market trends.
Finding the right financial planner can be a difficult task, but it is worth the effort. Exploring professional qualifications, customer reviews and personal connections will ensure you find a planner who will help you make smart decisions and look out for your best interests. With the right financial plan, you’ll be one step closer to achieving financial security and a comfortable retirement.