Got this press release from Kiplinger's and thought some of you might want to receive some free financial planning advice:
Crumbling housing prices and mounting credit woes sapped the U.S. economy in 2007—and consumers counting on real estate for a retirement nest egg may not receive the profits they anticipated. What better way to kick off 2008 than with a financial check-up.
During two special days this month, consumers can get free, personalized answers to financial questions by picking up the phone or logging on to a computer. For the seventh time, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) are partnering to sponsor Jump-Start Your Retirement Plan Days.
On Tuesday, January 15th and Friday, January 25th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, NAPFA advisors across the country will be standing by to answer your financial questions. Normally these Fee-Only planners, well versed in investments, taxes, insurance, estate planning, and saving for college and retirement, charge clients $100 to $300 an hour. But, during Jump-Start Days, their expertise is free. Just dial toll-free 888-919-2345 or log on to participate in an online discussion with an advisor.
Anyone have success in getting through via telephone? I tried multiple times throughout the day to no avail. (Not complaining to you, FMF, I'm just curious if someone, anyone was able to benefit from this service.)
Posted by: FS | January 25, 2008 at 08:27 PM
I got through at about 11:45 a.m. It took me three tries over a 15 minute period; the key was that even though the message says to "try again later", if you stayed on the line, a CFP did come on.
I actually had a great session, longer and more detailed than I expected. (I tried the Jumpstart event two years ago and had a horribly dismissive and rude CFP who basically told me that unless I changed my entire rate structure (his specific suggestion were ridiculous and not based in an understanding of my profession or geographic area's economy), my financial future was doomed. Yesterday's guy, however, asked great, probing questions, had realistic answers and suggestions, recommended particular books to read and actions to take, and was all-around swell. He did some calculations to figure out my best options, and found great options and alternatives.
As with CFPs out in the real world, I guess, our mileage may vary. :-)
Posted by: Julie | January 26, 2008 at 10:42 AM