Should I spend $$ on a financial planner?

[Chessie]

I don't think either you or OP could answer all the following questions:
-What level of life insurance should OP have on herself? On OP's ex? How should that policy be owned? I have a group policy through my employer for 2x my salary.-What type of disability policy would be best for OP's occupation? I have no disablility policy as it is so ridiculously expensive, I cannot afford it.

-What estate documents need to be in place to make sure OP's child is taken care of if passing early? I don't know. My son is 18, I assume that he would inherit everything. Yes I know, I need a will. That is on my list.

-What protection is available for OP and OP's child if ex passes early and leaves everything to the new spouse? I have no idea. My ex had intended to put something in place, but I doubt he has.

-What is the most tax efficient way of saving for retirement? College? 529 as far as I know.

-At 3.5% returns, how long will it be before you're able to retire the way you want to?
Probably 70 or later.

-What happens to your fixed income portfolio if interest rates go up? The "fixed" rate does flex with the interest rates, somewhat.

What can you do to protect youself against that?

A qualified planner could. Don't you think it'd be beneficial to have solid answers to those questions??

I do. About how much do Financial Planners charge? How do you go about finding a good one

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I do. About how much do Financial Planners charge? How do you go about finding a good one

That depends on the services and documents/products you need.

You are likely going to work with a planner and an estate attorney. Given the situation caused by the divorce, estate issues can be tricky.

I would start here: http://www.cfp.net/find/EnhancedSearch.aspx

There's a locator on the main page, use your local zip code to find a comprehensive planner in your area. I'd also add estate planning to the criteria.

You can even choose how the planner is paid as part of the search.