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For those who aren't sure how to go about finding a financial planner, the FPA has six suggestions to help in the search.
| Take control of your future |
| "Plan your financial life" is the message the FPA will promote this year during Financial Planning Week, as it encourages all Australians to put financial plans in place, and so to improve their lifestyle and future financial security.
Financial Planning Week provides various opportunities for Australians to find out how financial planning can help them take control of their financial future. |
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Checklist for how to choose a financial planner
1. Use the FPA's 'Find a Planner' service at www.fpa.asn.au:
This service helps people looking for financial planners to identify FPA members in their local area. It includes contact details for over 5,500 certified financial planner professionals across Australia.
2. Ask a friend for a referral / Do a bit of background reading:
Referrals from friends who have had a good experience with a financial planner can be the best and easiest way to find one that suits your needs. FPA research shows that over half the people who used a financial planner were referred by a friend. Money Well Spent is a 'quick read' that gives the key facts about financial advice and Getting Advice is a practical free guide to finding the right advice. Both publications can be downloaded from www.fpa.asn.au, or call freephone 1800 626 393 for free copies.
3. Choose a committed financial planning professional who is a member of the FPA:
All practising financial planners must be licensed, but it's sensible to look for one who is also a member of a professional association. All practising members of the FPA are committed to a code of ethics, rules of professional conduct that exceed those required by law, and must undertake continuing professional development.
4. Talk to a CFP professional:
Certified financial planner certification is the global symbol of excellence in financial planning. The CFP Mark is awarded to individuals who have gone beyond the competency, ethics and professional practice standards required of other FPA practitioner members. Each year CFP professionals must renew their right to use the Mark.
5. Be prepared & ask questions:
Prepare for your first appointment with notes on your financial goals and what you want from your adviser. Ask questions about the financial planner's qualifications, professional membership, experience, area of specialisation and what they expect to be able to do for you. Ask about their fees and any upfront charges.
6. Be open and upfront:
Providing full and accurate information about your personal circumstances will help a financial planner give the best possible advice to you, based on their full understanding of your financial needs and goals.
The Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) is the peak professional body for Australia's financial planners, representing approximately 12,000 individuals and businesses. |
