You've Earned It. Now What?

What does a financial planner do—and when do you need one? Can a money manager pick better investments than you can? Here’s what to know if you’re thinking of hiring someone to help you with your money.

Fee-Only Advisers

The category of fee-only advisers includes certified financial planners — who create detailed financial plans and often also manage money — as well as financial advisers who manage and invest portfolios. Fee-only advisers do not accept commissions or referral fees — a practice, they say, that keeps them free of bias. Most charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a fee based on a percentage of assets. more

Financial Advisers

These financial advisers charge flat fees for some services and may earn commissions on products they sell, such as mutual funds. Although some people argue that advisers who earn commissions can’t be free of bias, these advisers are said to work in a client’s interest. The fee-and-commission model can be cheaper than an annual fee based on a percentage of assets for some clients, such as those who make few trades. more

Estate Attorneys

Estate planners prepare wills , trusts, and health-care powers of attorney. These experts all have law degrees; we’ve noted those who also are CPAs. We’ve noted any specialties as well, though most attorneys can handle any type of client. more

Tax Accountants

These CPAs can handle tax returns and suggest ways to reduce your tax burden. Most do a range of accounting , but we’ve noted specialties given to us by the CPA or someone who recommended him or her. more

Insurance Advisers

These experts advise on and sell insurance. Most are independent agents who don’t sell just one insurance brand. more

Free John Hinckley

Thirty years ago, he shot President Ronald Reagan to show his love for Jodie Foster. A jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity, and ever since he has lived at DC’s St. Elizabeths Hospital. Now doctors say he’s healed and the law says it’s time to let him go. more

Healthy Recipe of the Week: Sniffle Stew

This easy-to-make curry stew will open your sinuses right up when that cold takes over. more

Five New Restaurants to Try This Weekend

From Alexandria to Adams Morgan, eateries are popping up all over the place. more

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Our advice team counsels a woman who met her fiancé online . . . and doesn’t want people to know. more

Old, New & Fun: Best of Silver Spring

The community has been transformed from an aging suburb to a lively hub of nightlife, dining, and entertainment. more

President Obama Attends a Groundbreaking for the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Michelle Obama and Laura Bush were among the VIPs who attended the event. more

A New Social Network Wants to Send You to Elton John’s Oscar Party

Tysons Corner company MicroStrategy’s online marketplace, EMMA, is holding contests offering “experiences of a lifetime.” more