How to Choose a Financial Planner

You've finally decided to admit it: When it comes to financial planning, you need help!

There's a huge amount of financial advice out there, ranging from free to extraordinarily expensive. It becomes complicated to evaluate and compare the services, costs (some hidden), and performance of all the people who are advertising that they're ready to help you manage your money.

The labels don't help much. The term "financial planner" can be used by almost anyone, and is often mistaken for those who truly can use the term "Certified Financial Planner," or CFP, because they have had extensive education, testing, experience and certification.

CFPs have passed courses not only in investments, but in insurance, taxation, estate planning, retirement income planning and other aspects of creating a well-rounded financial plan. ...