Advisers must be authorised and regulated

First things first, make sure your adviser is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This is vital for two good reasons:

  1. They can only give you advice if they have passed the right exams.
  2. If something goes wrong, you have a complaints process that’s backed by the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Financial Services Compensation Scheme

If any of that sounds good to you, speak to us, find an adviser in your area or talk to your existing adviser.

You can find a list of regulated advisers firms on the FCA website .

A good adviser will:

Take all the time you need

You should never feel rushed when you get advice. Good advisers will take time to carefully explain their recommendations. You need to know how they will affect you. Always ask questions if something isn’t clear.

Understand your life and aspirations

To create a good financial plan, an adviser needs to understand everything about you. What kind of lifestyle you have? What do you want for your future? A good adviser is going to ask you a lot of questions.

Be clear and upfront about the costs

Financial planning is a professional service. A good adviser will tell you about their charges from the start. They’ll also explain other third party costs, if these are involved. There should be no hidden surprises. You’ll know what you’re paying and why.

Go the distance

Advice shouldn’t be a one and done deal. You want people you can keep coming back to. So, don’t be afraid to ask about the size and strength of your advice firm.

Where you can find good advice

We think we’re a good place to start.

Acorn

When you're ready to retire

For peace of mind in retirement, get a personal plan on what to do – and help to do it.
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When you're ready to retire

For peace of mind in retirement, get a personal plan on what to do – and help to do it.
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Help with tax planning

An adviser can help you lower your tax bill so your money goes further.
Meet our tax advisers
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Help with tax planning

An adviser can help you lower your tax bill so your money goes further.
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Help with investing

Advisers can help if you’re new to investing or don’t have time to manage your own investments.
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Help with investing

Advisers can help if you’re new to investing or don’t have time to manage your own investments.
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Passing on inheritance and wealth

There are ways to pay less inheritance tax so you have more to pass on. An adviser can help you with estate planning.
Get help with inheritance planning
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Passing on inheritance and wealth

There are ways to pay less inheritance tax so you have more to pass on. An adviser can help you with estate planning.
Get help with inheritance planning
If you choose to invest, the value of your investments could fall as well as rise and you may get back less than you paid in.
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