I’m not convinced that they’re totally necessary but if you’re going to look for a financial planner, here’s how to go about it. While some financial planners argue that fees, investment returns, education and experience aren’t that important when selecting a financial advisor, impartial observers almost always disagree. Case in point is US News’ listing of six steps to finding a good financial planner. Their suggestions are as follows:

1. Gather names of at least three planners.
2. Screen for credentials.
3. Understand how the planner is paid.
4. Do a background check.
5. Ask tough questions.
6. Listen to their questions.

As far as advice goes, this is pretty good in our book. However, we still prefer the DIY approach to personal finances, especially for the basics. The principles that will get you well ahead of the pack are simple to understand (a smart sixth grader can grasp most of them), so if you have the discipline to make them work, why not invest a bit of time and become your own financial planner? You can always call in the “experts” for more complicated issues and questions. But no one will look out for your financial interests better than you will. That’s why the best financial planner is most often the person you see in the mirror.

How to Find a Financial Planner [US News]

— FREE MONEY FINANCE (Photo: Getty)

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