Here are a few basic tips to consider in selecting your financial planner.

Find out if you are compatible. Determine if you are the right type of client (profession, income, age etc.) for the planner. It is most important that you get along well your financial planner.

Ask a prospective financial planner for background reading material. The information should answer many of your questions and give you a basis to compare this planner with others you may have contacted.

Meet with the financial planner to discuss how he or she will work with you. You will want to have full disclosure of how the planner will be compensated. Ask about the planner's background and credentials - education and experience are very important. Ask how long the financial planner has been counseling others and providing comprehensive financial plans.

Generally you want to select someone you can work with over the long term.

For further information, see the article Selecting Your Financial Planner