Having a financial plan is a vital part of anyone’s future. With a financial plan you can take the guesswork out of what you have. You’ll be able to balance what you need with your personal goals for the future and you’ll have a financial cushion when unexpected expenses crop up. This is true even if you are not affluent so let’s clarify a few of the myths that you might be hanging onto!
MYTH: FINANCIAL PLANNERS ARE ONLY FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVE MONEY TO SAVE
This misperception is widespread and needs to change so people who struggle with their money can find some relief! Financial planning is for people of all income levels to achieve short-term and long-term financial goals. For as little as a couple of hundred dollars you can have a portfolio consultation and assessment done by a fee-based financial planner. This breed of planner does not take compensation or commissions from selling certain products. There are also other planners who carry on multiple lines of business (i.e. insurance, investments and consulting) which enables them to be knowledgeable about your existing products while also providing an objective review.
MYTH: CERTIFICATION LETTERS MEAN NOTHING
Actually, if you are looking for an advisor, you should definitely pay attention to those letters and give extra credit to those who have designations such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Financial Planner (F.Pl.). CFPs and F.Pl.’s put in hundreds of hours to continue their education to keep the certification. There is not only an annual requirement to maintain these licenses by paying fees to regulatory overseers but also an obligation to complete credited education workshops. Trust that there are strict standards in place to protect the client’s best interest.
MYTH: A PLANNER ADVISES ON INVESTING
Financial planning is never that simple. It takes into account all financial aspects such as taxes, insurance, investments, budgeting, retirement, and estate planning. Planners keep up with the laws relating to investment income and taxation and they develop strategies, objectives and timelines to make everything work together. Selecting the right investments is definitely an important part of personal finances however; it’s not the only part. With the assistance and proper guidance of a financial planner who considers your unique situation, you are certain to have a stronger bottom line. A financial planner focuses on wealth management and financial planning, whereas an attorney draughts attorneys documents and provides legal advice.
Everyone, regardless of age, social or financial status, or life stage benefits from financial planning. Now that you know the role of the financial planner, keeping your planner up to date with your changing financial landscape ensures that your plan is the best one for you.