Before meeting with your financial advisor for the first time, you might not know what to expect. Of course, you need to compile tax returns and investment statements, but what else will your financial services expert need to give you the best possible advice? The following tips will ensure you have all the info necessary to get the most out of your first meeting.

3 Steps to Take Before Meeting Your Financial Advisor

1. Get a Handle on Your Benefits

Employer-provided retirement benefits can be the cornerstone of an effective long-term retirement plan, but only if you’re taking full advantage of them. According to financial experts, most Americans don’t utilize all of the employer-matching benefits they’re entitled to, which is like turning down free money. Bring your financial advisor a detailed description of your benefits package, along with your current 401(k) statements to ensure you aren’t part of this statistic.

2. Identify Your Problem Areas

Nobody’s perfect, and everyone has at least a few bad financial habits. Check out a few months’ worth of bank statements to find weak spots and problem areas before meeting with an advisor. Armed with this information, you’ll be ready to jump into a savings strategy and deal with those problems—which will make your first appointment that much more fruitful.

3. Go Digital

Financial planning can be overwhelming, especially when met with chaotic piles of disorganized paperwork. Scanning and digitizing bank statements, insurance policies, deductible receipts, and investment earning statements will not only give you a sense of control over your life, but it will also maximize your time with a financial advisor.

Whether you’re hoping to retire early or travel the world, achieving your goals requires a long-term financial strategy and expert advice. For decades, Hawaiians have turned to Daren Katayama CPA LLC, a financial advisor committed to giving everyone the individual attention these matters deserve. To learn more about how they can help and set up your first appointment, visit their website or call (808) 329-6635 today.