We all have our limitations. Some are easily discouraged by technology, others may dread anything that requires manual work, and many glaze over numbers, percentages and financial terms.

And if you’re one of the latter group, you should know you’re not alone. Financial terms and concepts are complex, and few organisations exert any effort to make them more accessible to consumers.

So what can you do if you’re about to make a major purchase or a financing decision? Signing documents without reviewing them is the wrong answer. You will need to get involved much earlier in the process and know exactly what you end up signing on.

So where could you start? Here are a few ideas.

Coach yourself

There are plenty of online resources that could help you understand basic financial information. Google “how interest rates work?” or “What is APR?” and any other basic topic, and you will find enough information to help you. Be sure you’re looking at information that are relevant to your market, however, although some basic concepts are the same anywhere.

You could be more successful if you research one point at a time. For example, if you’re financing a car. Read about how interest rates are determined, what other fees and charges are added, and what is the definition remains a mystery to you.

Hire a professional

In many cases, hiring a professional is a better option. Yes, it will cost you money now, but it could save you a lot of money in the long run. For example, an attorney can look over your mortgage documents, a financial adviser can help you consolidate your debt or make better investment decisions, etc.

Not all professionals are the same, however. Make sure that you review the credentials of anyone you retain. Know what credentials are the norm and research this person online to see reviews and rating by other clients. This is the minimum due diligence that you should do when you will trust another person to help you make financial decisions or make decisions on your behalf.

Get a family member involved

Is your spouse more financial savvy? Work on your finances and financial decisions together. Having a second pair of eyes of a person who definitely has your interest is invaluable. And while relationships are different in being open about financial matters, it is worth it to have the input of your spouse if you’re not certain you’re making the right decision. After all, a financial problem is likely to hit both of you equally.

In particular, make sure that you involve anyone who may be financial liable because of your transaction. Is your spouse a co-signer? This is another reason to let this person know of what they are walking into. If both of you are unsure about the terms of a loan or an investment, pause and seek help.

Plan ahead

Because you know that you don’t have aptitude for managing financials, give yourself plenty of time. This will allow you to research, ask questions and find your options. Someone who is more savvy could detect a bad deal just by glancing over a document. You may not be able to achieve this level of competence, but if you can read closely and inquire about anything that raises a red flag, you should be on the right track.

In addition, the more practice you get, the better you will be to make financial in the future. You certainly won’t Google, “What’s APR?” and “How do interest rates work?” every time you take a loan. So start today acquiring knowledge, while you get help from experts and family.

The writer, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is a Seattle-based editor.

Little knowledge about finances?

Take a leap into learning more

Get help for professionals in major decisions

Ask friends and family for their views

Give yourself enough time to research

— R.O.