Financial Planners play a important role in helping their clientele preserve, invest, and consequently grow their capital. Typically they can help plan and achieve specific financial targets like saving for a business or purchasing a house. Based on the experience of whom you work with, you may find that some even specialize in areas like retirement or estate planning.

Don't mistake advisors with stockbrokers - the marketplace mavens professionals contact in order to trade stocks. Another area that folks confuse a lot would be that they believe that financial advisors are also insurance agents or accountants.

In terms of qualifying criteria to become a 'financial planner' presently there isn't much which needs to be done outside of hanging a sign up that says 'financial advisor.' They might tack on an alphabet soup of letters after their names, but CFP (short for certified financial planner) is regarded as the significant credential. A CFP status is essential and is the initial sign that the person you want to do business with is in fact experienced the financial industry. Anyone that carries the CFP status is devoted to taking continuing education and ethics training. The CFP credential is a great signal that a possible manager can give sound financial assistance. That being said, simply because you've passed the exam doesn't mean you have the credibility and skills needed for each customer. As with most significant lifestyle decisions, make certain you are very thorough about deciding on the best manager.

Traditionally, financial consultants earn their income either from commissions or by charging hourly or flat prices for their expertise. Traditionally a commission is paid when somebody buys or sells stock or some other sort of investment. Depending on the person, some people are more comfortable dealing with financial planners that do not rely on commissions. The main reason for this is that there is a feeling that these particular professionals may steer you in a specific direction just for them to earn money, and not because it is in your best interests.

A growing amount of financial consultants earn money only when you pay them a fee for their counsel. If your planner works based on fees then they don't make any cash from life insurance coverage or mutual funds. That being said, you might pay a set fee such as $3000 for a financial strategy that is customized or you. Or based on your agreement with the financial consultant you can pay an yearly charge that is generally a percentage of the assets they have to invest. However other financial consultants charge a set service charge similar to lawyers or other specialists.

Something to be familiar with is the fact that you will come across financial advisors that do not take clientele with less than $250,000. The reason for this is that most planners prefer to deal with a larger accounts that they are paid more for their time. In conclusion it's best to find out later that you're comfortable working with and they will make the time to ensure that your financial concerns and questions are addressed.