How to find a Financial Planner
Asking for advice from a certified financial planner
If you’re not sure or you’re close to retirement, you may want to get help from a certified financial planner to make your decision. Here are some tips for choosing a certified financial planner:
- Ask if the firm is licensed by ASIC – the government regulator.
- Check that the firm has indemnity insurance and is a Member of a professional body such as the Financial Planning Association.
- Know how long they have been in business and ask about their research facilities.
- Understand how they will charge you. Do they charge a fee for service or rely on commissions from the amount of money you might invest? Some firms may charge a combination of both.
- Make sure they are professional and impartial.
- Ask yourself if you are comfortable with the certified financial planner that would be assigned to you.
The Financial Planning Association can put you in touch with a certified financial planner. Call them on 1800 337 301 or look up their website at www.fpa.asn.au.