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Financial planning is one of those activities that you can technically do yourself, but would probably be much better off if an expert were in control.  A financial planner can take your portfolio to the next level, or for most people, create one in the first place. 

A financial planner will help you organize, plan, invest, evaluate and allocate to enhance your financial life.  And with such an important job at hand, it’s wise to ask your planner some equally important questions before you sign on. 

How to Choose
When choosing a financial planner, make sure you consider things like his or her education and practical experience, fees, method of payment and what precise services they provide.  Ask if you can speak to some current and former clients so you can get a sense of the general satisfaction level and expertise in financial planning. 

Once you have decide on a financial planner, here are some questions you’ll want to ask. 

When Can I Retire?
Most people want to know what kind of retirement plan they can expect, and more specifically when they can wrap up their work life and start taking it easy.  Your planner should include this as part of an overall plan. 

How Can I Save For Kid’s College?
If you have children, it’s better to start saving for college or university sooner rather than later.  Make sure this important question is part of the equation during your first strategy session. 

How Should I Invest?
Quite often, financial planning has as much to do with investing as it does anything else, so find out what kind of investments he is planning, and how much you are supposed to dedicate to each one. 

What Type of Insurance Should I Have?
Your financial planner will be able to advise you on the proper types of insurance to have to protect your various investments and financial strategies.  Without the right kind of insurance you run the risk of losing everything you’ve gained if something happens and your money is affected. 

What Are Some Sound Tax Strategies?
Making sound investments means making extra money which means paying more in taxes.  Your planner should direct you toward investments that will maximize your return while minimizing the taxes you have to pay.  Financial planning means being clever and playing the tax game sometimes, too.

What’s Your Overall Plan for Me?
Along with all the details, you’ll want to know what the broad, overall picture looks like as far as your finances go.  It’s nice to be able to have an overall plan and guide to consult from time to time as you continue on with the process.