Money may not be everything, but it sure can make things a little easier. Whether you are just starting out or closing in on retirement, you want to make the most of your hard-earned money. Do you go it alone to make the best choices for growing your funds, or do you pay a professional financial adviser and get -- hopefully knowledgeable -- advice?

There are arguments on both sides. You can do it yourself and save on fees you would have to pay someone else, or you can hire an adviser with a proven track record who is at the top of his or her game. Certified public accountant Kristopher Caine said, "A good accountant pays for himself in what he can save you, and a good financial adviser can save you money while helping you earn even more."

Proponents of the do-it-yourself strategy believe that no one has a higher stake in your investments than you do. They also scoff at the idea of paying someone else to handle your money rather doing the research yourself -- and therefore saving on fees. Those against hiring advisers are often concerned about fees. Some advisers charge flat fees, which could mean they see no personal gain whether you make or lose money. In these situations, the financial adviser may not put in any real effort. Some other advisers charge a percentage of your assets, which could wind up being very high. Still other advisers are paid commissions by mutual funds -- which could create a serious conflict of interest.

Despite the naysayers, a 2019 Northwestern Mutual study found that U.S. adults who work with a financial adviser report "substantially greater financial security, confidence and clarity than those who go it alone."

Choosing a good financial adviser takes thought and planning, so don't be afraid to interview advisers before you put any of your hard earned money in their hands. Look to hire an adviser who is a fiduciary: an individual who is ethically bound to act in another person's best interest. Ask about the adviser's education, experience and track record for investments. A certified financial adviser has to pass a series of tests, including the Series 7 and either the Series 65 or Series 66. Make sure your adviser has these credentials.

If the adviser guarantees high returns on your money, look for someone else. Promising returns is not only illegal but also dishonest; no one has that clear of an insight into a market's future. If your financial adviser shares some of your visions and understands your specific needs relating to business ownership, retirement, net worth, etc., you will feel more confident in their abilities.

Basic questions to ask when you are interviewing a financial adviser include:

-- What credentials have you earned? What did you study in college? What college degrees did you earn? From where

-- How do you incorporate tax strategy into how you make investment decisions for your clients? Name three books you have read that address investing and finance.

-- How are you regulated? What role do you personally play in complying with all regulatory requirements?

-- Can you pick stocks that consistently beat the market? (If they say yes, run.)

-- How do you make money? How does your firm make money? What conflicts of interest exist, and how do you navigate them?

Regardless of whether you decide to hire a professional, the earlier you start smart, sound financial management, the better off you will be. Priorities should include: preparing a monthly budget; knowing what your mandatory expenses are with a plan to live within your means; paying down your debt because savings account interest is far less than finance charges; building an emergency-only fund of a minimum six months' worth of expenses and replacing it immediately if you use it; working toward building your retirement and investing savings.

Financial adviser Dave Ramsey recommends putting 15% of your gross income in your retirement savings each year. If you max out your retirement accounts, invest in mutual funds, annuities or real estate; the older you are, the safer your investments should be.

If you hire a good financial adviser, the expense could be well worth it. Just make sure you do your homework.