> NAPFA defines a "Fee-Only" financial advisor as one who is compensated solely by the client, with neither the advisor nor any related party receiving compensa

> NAPFA defines a "Fee-Only" financial advisor as one who is compensated solely by the client, with neither the advisor nor any related party receiving compensation that is contingent on the purchase or sale of a financial product. This definition is in direct contrast to most advisors, who earn commissions, discounts, and other incentives when their clients purchase financial products. Also, unlike other financial planners, NAPFA members are required to clearly disclose the fee in advance. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Association_of_Personal_Financial_Advisors http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Association_of_Persona... What you're saying is true of most financial planners, but not fee-only planners. That's the whole point of being fee-only. Also I will use the Internet as long as I can starting out, but things aren't always that simple. We hired an advisor this year because we received two complex inheritances (one foreign) and started drawing down college savings, all at once. My dad is a CPA and an ardent DIYer, but even he knew he was in over his head and needed to hire a professional.