Do you know the role financial planners play? Chances are, you’ve probably heard of financial planners, but may not be familiar with the vital impact they can make on your personal bottom line.
Financial planners are professionals with broad knowledge about financial concepts and investment vehicles. When assisting their clients, they consider individual risk tolerance and life circumstances to help forge a pathway to meet long-term goals. From investments and real estate to life insurance and retirement, financial planners can help you shape your financial future — and help you take the realistic steps to get there.
According to a 2016 survey from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, 65 percent of Americans do not seek advice from a financial planner. Furthermore, 40 percent of American workers report they are not confident that they will have the funds to support a comfortable retirement. The data is concerning and reveals Americans have a lot to gain from a working with a financial planner, including: An expert who has your priorities at heart Individuals seeking financial help should find a Certified Financial Planner™.
These professionals have extensive, proven experience with advanced financial planning concepts and financial counseling. They take it a step further than uncertified financial planners: CFP® professionals are held to a high ethical standard and must complete ongoing continuing education to maintain their certification. Their expertise and extensive knowledge make them an indispensable resource when approaching anything money-related. In addition, some financial professionals, including financial planners, act as fiduciaries. This means they must work with their client’s best interests in mind. True fiduciaries become valuable and trustworthy partners, taking all options and a holistic approach to your individual portfolio.
The best tools for an ever-changing financial world An effective financial planner is aware of new regulations, market changes, and technological advances in the industry, in order to better serve their client. With technology playing an integral role in financial planning today, CFP® professionals are armed with software and other tools to help improve your experience and access to important information, building confidence along the way. A personalized roadmap for your individual journey Financial planning is unique to each individual.
A financial planner will help you create a one-of-a-kind plan that represents your circumstances, priorities, and goals. Some of their clients may want to save as much as possible for retirement, while others may want to set up an education fund for their children — no two plans will look exactly the same. A skilled financial planner will be able to respond to evolving goals, too, guiding you through each phase of life. Establishing a strong relationship with a financial planner means building a durable infrastructure for an impressive financial legacy.
Ultimately, everyone can benefit from learning about their finances — especially if you’re planning to make a large investment, boost their retirement savings or simply plan for your financial futures. Getting a professional perspective can help you make confident and informed decisions about anything money related.
Bill Kelso, CPA, CFP®, is a financial planner* at Pinnacle Financial Advisors, which assists individuals, families, and businesses with financial planning and wealth management in Sedona and the Verde Valley. He is a Registered Representative offering Securities through UNITED PLANNERS FINANCIAL SERVICES, Member: FINRA, SIPC. *Advisory Services offered through SEROS FINANCIAL, LLC. Pinnacle Financial Advisors, Seros Financial, and United Planners are independent companies.
