I agree with you that they should definitely watch their own finances, and that most people on wall street are salesman. I think that the benefit advisors can bring to individuals is the psychological aspect of someone watching over their money. I also think that unfortunately there are a lot of misinformed people who do need someone helping guide them in the right direction. In general though, yes if people want to get the most out of their money they should certainly learn some personal finance and make their own decisions.