Investopedia

Financial Planner

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Financial Planner'

A qualified investment professional who helps individuals and corporations meet their long-term financial objectives by analyzing the client's status and setting a program to achieve that client's goals. Financial planners specialize in tax planning, asset allocation, risk management, retirement and/or estate planning.

Also referred to as a "Registered Financial Planner," when the financial planner is registered with the Registered Financial Planner Institute (RFPI).
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Financial Planner'

Interview at least three financial planners before choosing the one that's right for you. Be sure to get the answers to the following questions:

1. What are your credentials?
2. Can you give me references?
3. What do you charge?
4. What is your area of expertise?
5. Will you act as my fiduciary?
6. What services can I expect?
7. How will we settle disputes?

The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Board of Standards certifies financial planners. To check the status of a certified financial planner and for a guide to choosing the right person for you, visit the CFP Board of Standards website. Also, there are several associations to help you find a member in your area, including the Financial Planning Association (FPA) and the National Association of Financial Advisers (NAPFA).

Articles Of Interest

  1. Should You Add A Securities License To Your Qualifications?

    Clients love planners who sell securities, but a securities license takes a lot of work. Learn if the stress and study are worth it.
  2. 5 Ways To Stretch Your Retirement Budget

    Living comfortably can be easy if you follow a simple plan.
  3. Choosing An Advisor: Wall Street Vs. Main Street

    A high-profile brand name alone won't meet your personal investing needs. This article will show you what else to look for.
  4. Start Your Own Financial Planning Firm

    Read on to find business tips to make your dream a reality.
  5. 4 Ways To Get A Head Start On Your Financial Career

    Breaking into the finance business is tough, but these tips can help.
  6. Financial Planning: It's About More Than Money

    Determine what you need to do now to make a drastic lifestyle change later.
  7. How To Deal With (Seriously) Dysfunctional Clients

    Difficult, unreasonable and eccentric people seek financial planners too. Find out how to cope.
  8. Paying Your Investment Advisor - Fees Or Commissions?

    The way a professional is compensated can affect quality of service. Learn more here.
  9. A Close Look At Certified Senior Designations

    We examine the validity of senior financial designations and whether they are worth pursuing.
  10. Top 4 Financial Jobs You Can Do From Home

    You don't have to go to an office to make a great salary in the financial sector. Here are the top four highest paying financial jobs you can do from home.
comments powered by Disqus
Marketplace
Hot Definitions
  1. Fool In The Shower

    The notion that changes or policies designed to alter the course of the economy should be done slowly, rather than all at once.
  2. Pattern Day Trader

    An SEC designation for traders who trade the same security four or more times per day (buys and sells) over a five-day period, and for whom same-day trades make up at least 6% of their activity for that period.
  3. Cost-Push Inflation

    A phenomenon in which the general price levels rise (inflation) due to increases in the cost of wages and raw materials.
  4. Happiness Economics

    The formal academic study of the relationship between individual satisfaction and economic issues, such as employment and wealth.
  5. Affluenza

    A social condition arising from the desire to be more wealthy, successful or to "keep up with the Joneses." Affluenza is symptomatic of a culture that holds up financial success as one of the highest achievements.
  6. Icarus Factor

    The term Icarus factor describes a situation where managers or executives initiate an overly ambitious project which then fails. Fueled by excitement for the project, the executives are unable to reign in their misguided enthusiasm before it is too late to avoid the failure.
Trading Center