Working with an advisor
When it comes to retirement planning, many people could use a little help. Consider working with a financial professional to discover what investment options make the most sense for you and how they fit into your overall financial plan.
Five key tasks a financial professional can help you:
Task 1 Income and savings
If you anticipate changing jobs, starting a business or staying home to care for children, a financial advisor can help you assess your situation.
Task 2 Retirement
Get help setting your goals, evaluating your investment risk tolerance and developing your overall retirement strategy.
Task 3 College
Learn how you can take advantage of the complex rules governing educational funding and financial aid.
Task 4 Estate planning
Having a tax-efficient plan for the distribution of assets may minimize the tax impact on the money you accumulate throughout your lifetime.
Task 5 Contingency fund
Get help toward building a surplus for unexpected events, such as job loss or illness.
Ask about fees
Generally, investors pay for services in one of three ways:
- As a percentage of assets under management
- Commissions
- Hourly, flat rate or retainer fees
The SEC recommends that you get a full explanation of payment arrangements before you enter into a relationship with a financial professional.
This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal or tax advice.
Key takeawaySee your full financial picture
A financial professional can help you look at all aspects of your finances to come up with a holistic approach to manage your spending, saving and planning.
What's next
Talk with a professional
A financial professional can assess your unique situation, including your goals, time horizon, current investment allocation, and risk tolerance, as well as other matters, to create your personalized financial plan.