For still others, a planner may help with a specific question, such as assessing an early retirement package, discussing the financial impact of changing careers, or handling a lump-sum payment from a pension plan. The next step is choosing the planner. The financial planning field went through a period of rapid growth in the early 1980s. It was fueled by the boom of those years in limited partnerships and tax shelters, followed by a sharp contraction when tax law changed, wiping out a lucrative source of commissions. Many planners quit the business.
Word of mouth is probably the most common way of finding professionals.
But be cautious. Check out the planner, just as you would if you found the name in the phone book. To get more names, you can turn to professional organizations representing planners who meet their standards. The groups will provide lists of members in your area. If you haven't obtained a list but are considering a planner who claims to be a member of one of these groups, call and check.