A multi-Billion dollar Ponzi scheme based in New York - No surprise; there are lots of questionable financial whizzes on Wall Street.

$350 Million lost to an investment firm in Sarasota - Now that is news! How soon we forget that some advisors, even those close to home, may not be good for our financial health. Remember 2007 when Capital 1st Financial was found to be defrauding seniors? Or some recent real estate investments?

So maybe it can happen here. How can the average person, who wants financial advice, find help and avoid ruin? A few things to remember - Nothing comes free. Buyer beware. Trust but check. Follow these steps to find trustworthy and competent help.

Nothing comes for free. Sorry to pop the dream. Understand how risk and return work. Higher return investments have higher risks. You can insure against some risks. If you are offered a higher return or "no loss" investment, you are taking a higher risk or you will pay via insurance, to lower the risks.

You may have to pay some of your hard earned cash to hire a good advisor. How do you feel about free advice when it is followed by a sales offer? You need to understand how, and how much, you will pay for the advice or product - there is a cost somewhere. If you cannot determine how much or get a clear explanation, then show that you are a knowledgeable consumer and walk out.

Point number two. Buyer beware. Finding trustworthy advice will take some work on your part. You will need to become financially knowledgeable enough to be able to ask questions and determine if what is being offered is good for you. Know your financial goals, when you will need the money and your risk profile. Any investments or products should match up with your needs, not someone else's needs.

If something is offered for free, you need to be on alert. Businesses must make money to survive. If it is offered for free now, there will be a payment at some time. Understand the "free offer" for what it is, an enticement to get you to take a closer look. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Pay attention to the alarms!

Finally, trust. You should consider using an advisor who is legally obligated to put your interests first. In financial services this is called a fiduciary. Get referrals from people you trust and who have similar circumstances as you. Check out referrals. You can check out brokers and Registered Investment Advisors at www.sec.gov.com Interview several potential advisors. You can get a set of questions to ask at www.GarrettPlanningNetwork.com .

There are many competent and trustworthy advisors in the area. Take your time and find the one that will be the best for you. It will be worth the effort.