We clearly explain or document the services to be provided to you and define both our and your responsibilities. We explain fully how we will be paid and  by whom. We agree on how long the professional relationship should last and on how decisions will be made.

We ask for information about your financial situation. We should mutually define your personal and financial goals, understand your time frame for results and discuss, if relevant, how you feel about risk. We should gather all the necessary documents before giving you the advice you need.

We analyze your information to assess your current situation and determine what you must do to meet your goals. Depending on what services you have asked for, this could include analyzing your assets, liabilities and cash flow, current insurance coverage, investments or tax strategies.

We offer financial planning recommendations that address your goals, based on the information you provide. We go over the recommendations with you to help you understand them so that you can make informed decisions. We also listen to your concerns and revise the recommendations as appropriate.

We agree on how the recommendations will be carried out. We carry out the recommendations or serve as your “coach,” coordinating the whole process with you and other professionals such as attorneys or stockbrokers.

We agree on who will monitor your progress towards your goals. If the planner is in charge of the process, we report to you periodically to review your situation and adjust the recommendations, if needed, as your life changes.