Home

Taking a Financial Inventory

Twelve Months of Financial Milestones

Working with Financial and Legal Advisors

What Kind of Advisor Do I Need?

How Do I Find the Right Financial Advisor?

Get Names

Gather Background Material

Interview Prospective Advisors

Choose Your Financial Advisor

How Do I Find the Right Legal Advisor?

Settling the Estate

Taking Control of Your Financial Future

Glossary of Financial Terms

Resources

WORKING WITH FINANCIAL AND LEGAL ADVISORS
Finding the Right Financial Advisor: Gather
Background Material

To narrow your list of advisors, try to get
the following types of information—in writing, if possible:

• Business history.

• Educational background.

• Professional credentials, such as the Certified Financial Planner®, or CFP®, designation. “Deciphering Professional Designations” explains common financial advisor credentials.

• Licenses, such as for selling stocks, insurance, or real estate.

• Specialties, if any.

• Experience, including experience working with individuals who have lost a loved one suddenly.

• How the advisor is paid—by the hour, by fees, or by commission.

• Membership in professional organizations.

If an advisor is reluctant to provide background information, scratch his or her name off your list.