Many investors lack a basic understanding of fixed-income investing, says research released recently by BlackRock.

The lack of knowledge is particularly troublesome at a time when interest rates are expected to be raised at least once in the next few months, according to BlackRock.

“After years of declining and relatively low interest rates, the prospect of rising rates represents a sea change for investing, yet many Americans don’t understand what this change could mean for investing strategies,” says Jeffrey Rosenberg, BlackRock’s chief fixed-income strategist. “Rising rates have the potential to touch all segments of the markets, not just fixed income, so it’s key for investors to seek out information so that they can fill any knowledge gaps regarding this critical trend.”

The survey of 417 Americans with $50,000 or more in investible assets shows that 31 percent incorrectly believe that investor cannot lose their money with fixed-income investments. And 68 percent incorrectly say rising interest rates have a positive or neutral effect on bonds.

This knowledge gap is an invitation for advisors to provide assistance, according to BlackRock.

“Advisors can play a critical role in educating clients on the impact of market conditions on fixed-income performance as well as the role of fixed income in their clients’ portfolios,” says Hollie Fagan, head of BlackRock’s dedicated RIA business and retail investor platforms.

Many investors know they need help, with 60 percent of survey respondents  saying they don‘t consider themselves knowledgeable regarding fixed income and 57 percent saying they do not understand the market and economic forces that drive bond prices.

The survey suggests that having a relationship with an advisor encourages investors to get the help they need, according to BlackRock. Fifty-five percent of investors with advisors plan to seek help this year compared to 31 percent of those without advisors, the survey says.

Advice also seems to make a difference when it comes to overall confidence levels, according to BlackRock. Eighty-eight percent of investors with advisors say the investments they own today are the right ones for them, compared to 70 percent of those without advisors.