Understand the implications of the generic term "financial planner". Financial planning is not regulated in most Canadian provinces. This means that anyone can call themselves a "financial planner". Not everyone who refers to themselves as a planner is indeed qualified; many so-called financial planners are licensed to sell products but have no financial planning training or expertise. In the absence of government regulation, consumers must ensure their planner is indeed trained, certified, and held accountable to provide professional financial planning.
Ten questions to ask a potential financial planner:
Financial Planner?
Understand the implications of the generic term "financial planner". Financial planning is not regulated in most Canadian provinces. This means that anyone can call themselves a "financial planner". Not everyone who refers to themselves as a planner is indeed qualified; many so-called financial planners are licensed to sell products but have no financial planning training or expertise. In the absence of government regulation, consumers must ensure their planner is indeed trained, certified, and held accountable to provide professional financial planning.
Ten questions to ask a potential financial planner:
- What are your qualifications?
- What experience do you have?
- What services do you offer?
- What is your approach to financial planning?
- Will you be the only person working with me?
- How will I pay for your services?
- How much do you typically charge?
- Could anyone besides me benefit from your recommendations?
- Are you regulated by any organization?
- Can I have it in writing?
More info at http://www.fpsccanada.org/public/articles/10_questions_ask_your_planner
Source: Financial Planners Standards Council (FPSC), 1-800-305-9886