Personal Finance Essentials

Choosing a Financial Advisor

Choosing a Financial Advisor

The Right Financial Advisor is the Difference Between Hoping for the Best and

Planning For It

Life is now too complicated for most consumers to handle their personal finances on their own. Making the right decisions on an ongoing basis requires more time than most have, more knowledge than most have acquired – and a desire to devote the time to these chores that they require.  

This is why you should instead hire a financial advisor – a strategic partner who will help you develop a comprehensive financial plan, manage your investments, help you plan for retirement, protect your assets and secure your family’s financial future. 

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Why You May
Need a
Financial Advisor

A good financial advisor helps you set goals, build a plan, and navigate the full range of personal finance decisions.

The Four Kinds
of Practitioners
You Can Hire

Stockbrokers, insurance agents, investment advisor representatives, and money managers

12 Questions to Ask Prospective Advisors

Before hiring a financial advisor, ask these questions and find out who they really work for, how they get paid, and whether they’re right for you.

The Ideal Financial Advisor

Someone who understands your full financial picture, communicates proactively, and has the integrity to tell you what you need to hear.

Nine Taboos Between You and Your Advisor

No matter how much you trust your advisor, these nine rules protect you from fraud, manipulation, and financial loss.

Warning Signs
of Fraud

Warning signs to help you spot fraud before it costs you.

How to Work with
Your Advisor

A good advisor relationship is proactive, not reactive — reach out before major decisions, and make sure life changes trigger a conversation.

Evaluating Your Advisor’s Performance

Periodically assess the relationship, services, performance, costs, and their regulatory record to make sure you’re still getting what you need.