What is a fee-only financial planner?
A fee-only financial planner is paid directly by their clients. This is different from financial planners who charge a commission through the products they sell. Typically, fee-only financial planners charge flat rates, hourly rates or a percentage of the assets that they manage for the client.
In the personal finance industry, the fee-only model is considered to be the most transparent because it puts the client’s interest first. Fee-only financial planners are also considered fiduciaries because they’re required to consider what’s in the best interest of their client, according to the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors.
What does a financial planner do?
Financial planners have various specialties and backgrounds. Ultimately, they can help you analyze your finances and help you make a plan to reach your financial goals.
If you need help with your retirement savings, taxes, debt, investments and other aspects of your finances, consider hiring a financial planner near you.
What is a Certified Financial Planner?
A financial planner who has been designated as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., has met various requirements laid out by the CFP Board. These requirements and prerequisites include completing financial planning coursework, passing an exam, getting professional experience and more.
How do you hire a financial planner?
You can hire a financial planner near you by using Thumbtack. With Thumbtack, you can quickly find important details about the top-rated financial planners in your area. For example, you can:
Read their customer reviews and ratings
Learn more about their areas of expertise
See how many times they’ve been hired on Thumbtack
Find out if they’ve listed any credentials or certifications on their profiles
Message and contact the financial planners
Request a price quote for their services
Start searching for financial planners near you today.
What is a financial planner?
A financial planner is a professional who can help create a plan to achieve your financial goals. Some examples of financial planners include investment advisors, accountants or insurance agents, according to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.
What should you look for in a financial planner?
Ultimately, you should hire a financial planner who has the expertise, experience and credentials to help you navigate your finances. You should also make sure you trust your financial planner and can afford their fees.
As you’re evaluating local financial planners, ask yourself the following questions:
Does this financial planner charge fair fees and prices?
How do they get paid?
Will this person act in my best interest?
Can I trust this person to handle my finances?
Do they have the necessary certifications, education and credentials?
Does this financial planner have mostly positive customer reviews?
Do they specialize in a topic (investing, retirement planning, etc.) that I need help with?
How much is a financial planner?
On average, financial planners charge $100-$150 per hour for their services. However, hourly rates can range from $45-$200 per hour.
It’s important to note that financial planners and advisors may set their prices differently. For example, they may charge:
Hourly rates
Flat fees
Retainer fees
Commissions
A percentage of assets under management
Before you hire a financial planner or advisor, get cost estimates from several professionals near you. And ask them to explain how their pricing works and how they get paid.