Study after study show that even consumers seeking a strictly fee-only advisor find these terms confusing.

FORBES: Fee-Only Financial Planner: What's the Difference?

Get professional advice if needed but be sure that the advice comes from a fee- only advisor.

FORBES: Investing: Gender-Based Differences

When implementing an investment plan, especially one that uses products that lockup your money for long periods of time like non-traded REITs, see a fee-only advisor who can look at the big picture, rather than just what may be convenient for that particular broker.

FORBES: Need Tax Advice? See An Advisor, Not A Broker

"To me your insurance is an aspect of your overall financial plan, " says Roger Wohlner, a fee-only financial advisor in Arlington Heights, Ill.

FORBES: Magazine Article

According to a survey by the Cerulli Associates consulting firm, at least half of U.S. households do not use a financial advisor, broadly defined as a stockbroker, a fee-only planner, a bank trust officer or an insurance agent.

FORBES: Surprise: Financial Advisors, Rogues to Some, Are Actually Decent Folks