NEW YORK (MONEY Magazine) - Before you get started, do some research -- about yourself and your needs, and about the kinds of things to ask an adviser.

1. What type of advice do I need?

If you're looking for an overall assessment of your finances that will tell you whether you're on track to achieve goals like a secure retirement, then you want a financial plan. You can get this for a one-time fee of $1,000 to $5,000, or you can pay an adviser 0.5 to 1.5 percent of your assets each year to implement the plan and be available for consultations.

If, on the other hand, you want help only on the investing front, you can go to an adviser for help choosing stocks or mutual funds that you will then monitor -- or pay an adviser to create and run a portfolio for you, for 0.5 to 2 percent of the assets he's managing.

2. How would I prefer to work with an adviser?

Much advice these days is delivered by phone or through Web-based tools. But if you prefer the personal touch, you can easily find an adviser who will meet face to face. Just expect to pay more.

3. What kinds of plans do you offer?

Advisers sometimes direct clients into whatever program their firm is promoting. To be sure you end up with the service best suited to your specific needs, ask for a rundown of all the options.

4. What specific services will I get?

Don't settle for vague descriptions of the help you'll receive. Ask, for example, how much time the adviser will spend with you. (Devoting three to four hours to a discussion of your finances and a presentation of final recommendations is typical.)

If you've signed up for a one-time plan, you should also be able to go back to the adviser with questions for a month or so without paying more.

5 What will it cost me?

Whether you're paying a one-time flat fee, an hourly charge or a percentage of assets, know going in how much you'll pay -- and whether you'll also be hit with sales commissions or other charges.

To see what advice Vanguard, Schwab and Fidelity gave our shopper, click here.

Click here for more financial advice from our expert.