How Can a Financial Coach Help?

Concerned about your debts and unsure of the best way to resolve your financial issues? In such cases, many Americans search online for solutions to their financial issues. Actually, nowadays, there are numerous online sources of information available to assist you in managing your finances, but the diversity of finance topics (investing, retirement planning, taxes) may necessitate more practice than simply reading a bunch of web articles. Therefore, instead of attempting to improve your financial planning alone, it may be preferable to seek the assistance of a financial coach.

Financial coaches focus on the behavioral aspects of finance. They teach the fundamentals of money management. Their goal is to assist the clients in developing long-term healthy money habits. Financial coaches assist customers in recognizing the importance of tracking their income and expenses, setting realistic goals, and creating spending plans that hold them responsible.

The Cost of Financial Coaches

Pricing will vary greatly because financial coaching is not regulated, and anyone can be a coach. Coaches who are certified, highly trained, or in high demand may cost more than one who is just starting out. Generally, financial coaches work on a fee-only basis. Some charge by the length of time you intend to work together or per session, while others charge by a percentage of your income. Financial coaching typically ranges from $75 to $600 per one-hour session.

How a Financial Coach Helps 

A financial coach can assist you in the following areas: 

• Recognizing the emotional aspects of managing money.
• Making a budget.
• Creating a financial plan.
• Discovering how to set up an emergency fund.
• Managing your debt.

Financial coaches tailor their approach to each client's specific needs to assist them in making progress in their financial life. Individuals who receive financial coaching acquire the following characteristics:

• Improved financial management abilities.
• Advanced savings, debt, and credit scores.
• Increased financial assurance.

The coach encourages clients to take responsibility for their choices, motivates their ongoing learning and growth, and acts as a partner throughout the process.

Financial Coaches are Different from Financial Advisors

While both of these finance experts can help you reach your financial goals, they are not the same. A financial coach, like a coach for a sports team, teaches the knowledge and skills to play the game. A financial advisor focuses on long-term financial goals that will last throughout your life. 

In a nutshell, financial advisors manage and build on existing wealth, whereas financial coaches provide information that puts clients in the best position to create that wealth. Furthermore, the qualifications of these two experts differ. Financial coaches are not required to have any formal education or training, nor are they required to be certified or licensed. At the same time, a financial advisor must be licensed and registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which oversees the financial services industry.

If you're just getting started with money management and don't know where to start, a financial coach can be a good option for you. But, if you want to start a business or refinance your home, you had better consult a financial advisor before making any significant financial decisions.