 Finding
an independent financial planner
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 Dear
Dr. Don,
I am a retired teacher with money that is tax sheltered with an
investment firm. I would like advice on how to select a certified
financial planner who is not associated with any particular financial
organization. What do I need to do to find a reputable certified
financial planner, and how much might it cost for her advice?
-- Jean Joinder
 Dear
Jean,
I understand your concerns. You're looking for someone that's squarely
in your corner in developing a financial plan and evaluating the
changes that need to take place in your personal finances to better
meet your financial goals.
Finding a planner that is completely unaffiliated with financial
service providers is difficult because a financial planner needs
to work with financial service providers to help clients implement
financial plans.
Members of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors,
or NAPFA, are fee-only financial planners and are compensated solely
by their clients. An investment adviser who is registered with NAPFA
guarantees the complete disclosure of all fees before he is engaged
as your financial planner. You can learn more about the association
and find a NAPFA-registered adviser in your area by visiting the
NAPFA Web site.
Although I certainly won't discourage you from seeking out a CFP
certificant as your financial adviser, planning professionals with
other
professional designations may also be able to meet your need
for independent advice.
To ask a question of Dr. Don, go
to the "Ask the Experts"
page, and select one of these topics: "financing a home",
"saving & investing" or "money".
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