Before your first meeting with a financial professional, it helps to do a little preparation. Thinking ahead about some common questions and bringing the right information can help make the most of your time together and enable your financial professional to suggest solutions and strategies that work for you.
The more you can share about your current situation and future goals, the better. So, be prepared to discuss topics like:
• What are some of your short- and long-term financial goals?
• What would you like to do when you’re retired?
• Do you have big life events coming up such as getting married (or divorced), starting a family, buying a home or paying for college?
The more you can share about your current situation and future goals, the better.
To help your financial professional get a clear view of your financial situation, bring what you can from the following list:
• Your savings and investments (bank statements, retirement accounts, stocks, etc.).
• Your income (paycheck stubs and your latest tax return).
• Your debts (mortgage/rent, loans, credit card statements).
• Your insurance and benefits (statements and/or employer booklets).
• Your average monthly expenses (how much you spend on food, clothing, entertainment, etc.).
• Your driver's license or passport so the financial professional can confirm your identity as required by the Patriot Act.
It will probably take a couple of meetings for your financial professional to create an appropriate financial plan for you. But preparing for the initial meeting should help you get off to a great start toward meeting your financial goals.
