Do I actually need a financial advisor, or can I manage money myself?

Many people don't need one for routine investing. If your situation is straightforward – steady W-2 income, maxing a 401(k) and IRA, holding low-cost index funds – a simple DIY plan often beats paying 1% of assets every year. Where an advisor earns their fee is complexity and behavior: equity compensation, a business sale, a divorce or inheritance, retirement-income and tax-withdrawal sequencing, or simply needing a steady hand to stop you from panic-selling. Consider a fee-only, fiduciary advisor you pay by the hour or a flat project fee for a one-time plan, rather than an ongoing percentage. You can always start DIY and bring in help when a big decision lands. Gauge your readiness first at wealthserene.com/assessments/financial-wellness.