You’ve swapped your SUV for a more economical ride. You’ve started cooking meals at home and taking your lunch to work. You’ve clipped coupons until you’re blue in the face. Still, you’re having trouble paying your bills. If this is the case, it might be time for some professional intervention.

The thought of hiring a financial planner can be daunting at first. Aren’t they just for rich people or serious investors? The answer is no; they’re for anyone who needs help getting a grip on their finances. A strong financial plan will allow you to cut costs, pay your bills, and start saving for college, your first house, or retirement.

So how does the average person go about hiring a financial planner? And once you’ve chosen a prospect, how do you know if they’re scrupulous? Luckily, with a little due diligence, you can rest assured that your financial planner won’t take you for a costly ride.

Most financial planners are legitimate. Start with a candidate who comes highly recommended by your friends, family members, or business associates. To draw up a better personal budget, you’ll want a certified financial planner (CFP). CFPs are required to have 3 years of experience, in-depth coursework and exams, and ongoing participation in continuing education.

Try to get a recommendation from friends, family members, or business associates who’ve used a financial planner. They can be quite candid about a given planner’s skills, divulging information you wouldn’t get from the planner or their firm.

Next, set your priorities. Would you prefer a planner with lots of general experience, or one who specializes in your personal situation (i.e., retirement age investing or post-college debt reduction)? Do you want to do business in person, or would phone contact suffice? Do you want a planner who charges a flat hourly fee or one who takes a small percentage of your investment assets?

Whatever your situation, choose an experienced planner who communicates clearly in terms you understand. Check up on their record to make sure they’ve got a valid license. The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) has a handy checklist of questions you should ask potential financial planners.

Considering the shaky state of the economy, it’s no wonder so many people are hesitant to trust their personal finances to a stranger. Interview your financial planner like you would interview any job applicant – and verify their credentials and references just the same. After all, you’re hiring this person to perform a skilled service for you, and you deserve the best.