Time: < 1 Hour
STEP 1: Research financial planners in your area. Ask for suggestions from friends/family/social media, or talk to someone at your local bank (they may not be a financial advisor, but may be able to point you in the right direction).
STEP 2: Call the ones you are interested in. Ask about their rates and if there is a fee associated with meeting them for the first visit (there usually isn’t). Also ask what information they need you to bring. The more details you have on your current financial situation (debt, income, child support, potential layoff, etc.) the more effective the conversation will be.
STEP 3: Write down a list of questions that you would like to ask them or any concerns you have. They want you to work with them, so ask as many questions as possible to get the answers you need and make sure you agree with their suggestions.
STEP 4: Meet with the financial advisor, bringing any information they requested from you. Make sure you feel comfortable with him/her and that they understand your current situation and needs. When you leave the meeting, make sure you understand any next steps and what they are suggesting for your portfolio.
STEP 5: If you decide to work with them, do what they suggest and let them know if anything changes in your life – new job, lost job, marriage, divorce, pregnancy, etc. so they can suggest any adjustments if they are necessary.
