A financial planner is a professional who works with clients to manage their financial affairs, develop financial goals and create strategies to achieve those goals., These pros may go by the name of financial advisor, wealth manager, or financial planner, among others. Unfortunately, finding financial professionals you can trust—and afford—isn't always easy. Here are a few ways to get started. Feed your brain. Fund your future., Financial planners begin by assessing their clients' current financial situations, which involves reviewing assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. This comprehensive analysis helps them understand their clients' financial positions and identify areas of opportunity or concern., Consumer Reports helps you find a good financial planner. Selecting a certified financial planner is one of the most important money decisions you’ll make., Explore free tools, guides and resources to help you find the right type of support for your financial goals, whether that’s with a financial advisor or coach., A financial planner or personal financial planner is a qualified financial advisor. Practicing in full service personal finance, they advise clients on investments, insurance, tax, retirement and estate planning..