<prompt> Human: Do we really need them if we know the basics? What true benefit do they offer? I feel that they are middle men who would take 1-2 with no added value to an individual with a basic foundation for managing investments. If I ask him to build a conservative portfolio, wouldnt hr just invest your money in safe vanguard etfs?If I ask him to build a risky portfolio with higher then 10 returns, he will simply claim that he will try but obviously cant guarantee it... thus just a person playing with our money. Do they have certain access to informationsystems or data that the typical investor wouldnt have? I understand fiduciarys are looking for what is best for you, but what can they really offer? My fidelity and td account works great. Provides a wealth of data. And what about the wealth management brances.. chase wealth management for example. What can they offer?Looking forward to reading your opinions.  <response>: You dont need a financial advisor for investing decisions. However, a financial planner, preferably a CFPR, who is a fiduciary, can help you with many types of lifetime financial decisions. These include;Budgeting and credit issuesPlanning for large expenditures such as children and housesRetirement, tax, and estate planningDivorce planningCareer development Education fundingFraud preventionPlanning for incapacityDealing with aging family members or disabled family membersDecumulation tactics in retirementSocial Security strategiesCharitable givingRisk managementAnd, of course, the person will review your portfolio and suggest tweaks.A financial planner is a generalist, and will be able to refer you to other needed professionals such as tax advisors and estate attorneys. 