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Checklist for meeting with a financial advisor

Meeting with a financial advisor for the first time can be a little overwhelming, which is why we’ve assembled a list of helpful hints to help you get organized before our initial meeting. This should not be viewed as homework or a requirement, but simply a resource to help maximize your time:

  • Print and bring your most recent copy of your:
    • 401(k) statement with value and distribution/allocation of funds
    • Other various retirement accounts
    • Investment accounts
    • Checking accounts
    • Savings accounts
    • Any other accounts
    • IRAs
    • Insurance statements including benefit amounts
  • If you are currently employed, call your benefits department and ask the following questions:
    • What are the company’s primary retirement benefits?
    • Do I have various types of employer provided insurance benefits such as health, life, long-term care, disability, etc.? And, if so, what are the employer provided benefits?
    • Do we have a pension or a lump sum rollover option?
  • Create a list of your debt, including:
    • Approximate principal balances
    • Interest rates
    • Payment schedules
    • Expected payoff period
  • Document your last six to 12 months’ worth of spending, focusing on determining an average amount of spending per month.
  • Consider your long-term and short-term financial goals – where do you want to be in 5 years, 10 years, etc.?

Document these goals and be prepared to discuss them with your financial advisor. Having these goals in mind will assist you advisor in making appropriate recommendations for you.