Describe the decisions first
Retirement income, college planning, a business sale, and ongoing investment management require different work. List the decisions, deadlines, and people already involved. Decide whether you need a one-time plan, ongoing advice, or specialist coordination.
Ask about scope and compensation
Request a written description of services, fees, account minimums, and who will work with you. Ask whether the professional is acting as an investment adviser, broker, or both for the proposed service. Understand conflicts, product limitations, and how recommendations are implemented.
Verify before engaging
Check the professional and firm through FINRA BrokerCheck and SEC IAPD as applicable. Read the current disclosures and ask about anything you do not understand. Registration is not a performance guarantee. A directory profile is a starting point for research, not evidence that a provider has agreed to take your account.
Your next-conversation checklist
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These official sources support the concepts and provide current requirements. The practical workflow and questions are our editorial guidance.
General education. Your circumstances, agreements, and applicable rules matter. Review individual decisions with appropriately qualified professionals.