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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

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: Interview
Prospective Advisors

Even with a recommendation from a trusted friend or professional, you should do your homework. Personally interviewing two to three financial advisors on your list is the best way to determine if there’s a good fit between you and the advisor, and to learn how he or she will work with you. With many planners, the initial meeting will be free of charge.

The “Interviewing Financial Advisors” worksheet will help you cover the same information with all the advisors you interview and enable you to compare responses when you’re ready to make a decision. Advisors may ask questions about your current financial situation, so come prepared to discuss it. The more clear you are about your financial needs, concerns, and goals, the better you can determine if a specific planner is right for you. You may want to ask a friend or relative to accompany you. This person can take notes and afterwards help you evaluate how you feel about working with each advisor.