Questions to Ask Your Financial Planner

Stephen Lynch |

So you’ve made the decision to seek guidance from a financial planner—it’s an awesome decision and one that you can greatly benefit from, both financially and relationally. Afterall, financial planning at its core is the relationship between you and your planner. Once a good relationship is formed, wealth will follow, but how do you know you’re choosing the right financial planner? It’s all about tasking the right questions! 

A financial planning consultation will essentially be an interview for both parties; ensuring the financial planner and the services they offer are suitable for you and your financial needs. Here are some questions you should ask your financial planner during a consultation: 

  1. What are your qualifications? 
    Your assets and finances are integral aspects of your life, and should only be dealt with by an experienced professional. The first, and most important, is ensuring that you seek out a qualified financial planner with demonstrated expertise. Inquire on their education and what education requirements they have in place for employees. Ask if they’re accredited and by whom. Lastly, be sure to ask how many years of experience they have and in what areas. 
  2. How will the process work?
    The financial planning process will vary by advisor. While some may be perfect for you, others may not be suitable, so it’s important to work with someone who can work with you and your schedule. Will you want to meet often in person or do you prefer video call appointments? Be sure to inquire if your planner will be available for calls or emails outside of designated appointments, as well as exactly how they’ll get you from point A (planning) to point B (built wealth). 
  3. Are you a fiduciary? 
    Put simply, a fiduciary works in the best interest of you—the client—and afterall, you and your assets are what matter most. Some financial planners will benefit from suggesting or selling other products or services, even if they’re not ideal for you. A fiduciary, however, is legally or ethically held to a relationship or trust. 

Trusted Financial Advisors

While the above questions are extremely important, the first question you should ask of yourself is this: what type of financial planning help do I need?

Steve Lynch Wealth Management is a certified financial planner in Albuquerque with over 30 years of experience and a team of professionals who always put the client and their finances first. 

Does this sound like the planning you need? We’re here for you! Call us today at (505) 881-PLAN.