Ask about registration and credentials
Ask which licenses and credentials a professional holds and verify them independently. In the United States, SEC Investment Adviser Public Disclosure and FINRA BrokerCheck can help you review registrations and disciplinary information. A credential alone is not a guarantee of suitability or results.
Understand how they are paid
Ask for a written explanation of advisory fees, commissions, product expenses, and other charges. Find out whether compensation changes depending on the products recommended, and ask about conflicts of interest. Fee-only, fee-based, and commission-based are not interchangeable terms.
Clarify the relationship
Ask whether the professional will act as a fiduciary in your relationship and in which circumstances. Understand the scope of the engagement: investment management, financial planning, tax coordination, or other services. Confirm who will handle your account and how frequently you will communicate.
Take your time
Review the engagement agreement and relevant disclosures before signing. Compare more than one professional where practical. You are responsible for evaluating whether a professional is appropriate for your needs.
This resource is general education, not individualized advice. Consult an appropriately qualified professional about your circumstances.
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