If you need to lighten your work -- or stress -- load, let someone else do the heavy lifting. We have chosen eight professionals who can help make your life a little easier. Visit kiplinger.com/simplify for phone numbers and Web sites to help you find local professionals. The slide show navigation begins on your right.
Financial Adviser
A financial planner can help ease the burden of saving for retirement or college, or managing investments. Choose an adviser who is paid a set fee or who works on commission, or a combination of the two. Cost: $100 to $300 per hour (fee-only).
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Tax Preparer
If you have a simple return but don't want to do it yourself, try H&R Block or another commercial preparer. Need more guidance throughout the year or have a complicated tax situation? Consider a CPA. Cost: H&R Block patrons pay an average of $170; a CPA could charge from $150 to $500, depending on your situation.
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Travel Agent
An agent provides one-stop shopping for your next escape and can be especially valuable if you are venturing to a faraway destination. Cost: about $30 per person for a domestic trip, or $60 if you're heading overseas or have an intricate itinerary (there may be no fee to book a cruise).
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