When should I hire a financial advisor?

Consider an advisor when you experience major life events (inheritance, divorce, retirement), have complex tax situations, or simply feel overwhelmed. Fee-only fiduciary advisors ($150-300/hour or 0.25-1% of assets) are legally required to act in your interest. Avoid commission-based advisors who sell insurance products. For basic investing and budgeting, good personal finance books and index funds handle 90% of what most people need.