Hellobee Boards

Following. I need some advice, too. But wondering how much it will cost me.

@Anagram: if the money is already in a tax sheltered account and you're doing a true rollover, then you are certainly eligible to roll it into a traditional IRA or do a Roth conversion, regardless of your AGI. Eligibility issues would only be for new money you want to contribute. If you just want one time advice I would go to a larger mutual fund company like Vanguard or Fidelity. A professional advisor mostly wants clients with an ongoing relationship where they would charge you a percentage of assets under mangement.

I use one through my IRA account.. I mean, he doesn't do much and only calls 2-3 times a year (and not even the same person), but he did help me put my nest egg into investment finally last year.

I'd probably ask friends for referrals! A friend's brother is one and several friends use him, so if I ever need one I'd probably go to him.

@Anagram: You can always make a contribution into a traditional IRA, but beyond certain income limitations it won't be tax deductible. Roth IRA contributions have income limitations but you can get around those right now (hence "backdoor Roth IRA").

@Anagram: My understanding of the 403b is that it is pre-tax money going in, with taxes being paid at withdrawal. Like 401ks, some plans are crappy and some have better options.

A Roth IRA has post-tax money going in, and all (qualified) withdrawals are tax free. This means you pay the taxes now because you think your tax rate will be lower now than later.

The general advice that I've read is that you want a mix of both types of accounts to optimize your taxes at retirement.

Fidelity customer service has always been pretty helpful at explaining things to me so that is a great place to start.

@Anagram: my husband is a financial adviser so as far as answering questions about your accounts, I have no idea because he handles everything.
He used to work for a big bank so if you have a bank account anywhere you can walk in and ask to speak to their adviser and they will set up an appointment for you. I would not recommend this as the banks more revenue driven and will put you in something that will make them a bigger commission than what is actually what you need. He now works for an investment/financial services institution that focuses on retirement and investment planning. His clients are participants in the plans they have through their employer. So if you employer offers your 401k through Principal, for example, you can call and they will make you an appointment with an adviser to review your accounts and not just with the money you currently have with them, but with anything you may have outside as well.
No cost to consult and I think only certain types of managed account cost you a % fee.