 TITLE: Do I Need a Financial Planner? CONTENT: How to Choose a Financial Planner\n---------------------------------\nBefore you begin your search, understand that some professionals may call themselves financial planners without actually having the proper credentials, certifications or know-how. Confirm that the professionals you're considering are certified through the CFP Board. This means individuals have met the board's education, experience and examination requirements, and will be held to high standards. Use this online tool to verify their credentials.\nSome other factors to consider when shopping around for a financial planner:\n*   Are services provided in-person or online?\n*   Does their knowledge and experience suit your needs?\n*   What credentials and licenses do they hold?\n*   Do they work for a company or are they on their own?\n*   Do they prefer that clients fall within a certain asset range or require a minimum investment amount?\n*   Do they offer a fee- or commission-based compensation structure?\n*   Are their fees comparable to what other financial planners charge for similar services?\n*   How have they been reviewed by past clients?\n*   Have they been disciplined by regulatory authorities while working as a financial planner?\nNeed help finding a financial planner? Use the Find a CFP Professional tool operated by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. to identify financial planners that may be a good fit. END