* Did you do your homework? — There are plenty of helpful calculators and articles on the Internet, and in books and magazines. You can even buy software to help you put a financial plan together yourself. But, if you don’t have the time or just want to find out if you’re headed in the right direction, maybe it’s time to turn to a pro.

* CPA, CFP or RFC? — Now that’s some alphabet soup. These stand for Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner and Registered Financial Consultant. They are all different types of financial service professionals that are offered by a variety of sources including banks and insurance companies. Do your research ahead of time and figure out which type fits your needs. Some of the best planners often combine knowledge about accounting, investing, tax and insurance.

* Take it personally — Ask friends and family members if they use a financial planner. Then, call the people they’ve recommended. Take the time to find out what they offer and how they could help you meet your goals. That way you’re able to choose someone who’s a good match for your needs and personality.

* Money talks — Get clear on fees and commissions up front — by which method (or combination of methods) do they bill? Do they have hourly rates or charge a flat fee for an entire plan?

* Check them out — Make sure they’re licensed - ask to see their Form ADV. If the planner is a lawyer or a CPA, check the state bar association or accountancy board. Also call the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed.

All of this may seem to be as much work as doing the planning yourself, but you’re entrusting your future to your financial planner. Be sure to pick the right one.

I’d just like to add that our customers have had great success by applying the snow-ball method to any bad debt.

The idea is simply, yet really effective…

You start of by making a list of all your debts with the lowest amount owed on top. You then put ALL surplus cash you have available into paying back the smallest debt first.

Once this has been settled in full you then move onto the next debt in the list, and so on until all your debts have been settled in full.

It’s called the snow-ball method because once the smallest debt has been paid, any extra money you have left gets offset against the next balance. The effect is like just like a snow-ball.

Really simple and yet anyone in debt can easily apply it.

Regards
Rob