1 - Get A Recommendation
A personal recommendation is the best way to find an independent financial advisor (IFA). Online services are a great way to assist you in finding an IFA if there isn't a recommendation. In the absence of an individual recommendation, then the best way to find an IFA is to use VouchedFor* which will help you locate an IFA near you through its database. It also evaluates financial advisors based on genuine client reviews. Additionally, Money to the Masses has secured a deal in which readers can claim a free 30-60 minute consultation* with a 5-star evaluated Vouchedfor financial advisor. Click here to sign up and fill out the form in order to get started.

2 - Authorisation
It is essential to confirm that they have been authorized prior to doing business with IFAs. Financial advisers must be authorized to provide financial advice. To do this, you must check the Financial Services Register (provided by the Financial Conduct Authority) You can view an instructional video to understand how to utilize this register. Have a look at the top Nashville wealth management blog for details.



3 - Qualifications
Advisors should and can be able to obtain various qualifications to be competent in providing financial advice. Although the standards of the industry are changing regularly, I would never recommend anyone who does not have the Diploma in Financial Planning. (formerly the Advanced Financial Planning Certificate). It is best to choose someone who is either a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or who has earned Chartered status with the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). These two qualifications are proof of the financial planner's expertise in financial planning. Go to the website of Chartered Insurance Institute to verify the qualifications of any financial advisor.

4 - Experience
The qualifications are one thing, but the experience is another. A few gray hairs can indicate someone who has 'been around this block'. The average age of an IFA (in the financial advisory industry) is 58. While experience counts it should not come at the cost of being able to take advantage of the latest advancements and innovations. More importantly, the younger advisers entering the industry now have raised the benchmark for professionalism and competence.

5 - References
Request to speak with a few of the IFA clients you are interested in to get a sense of the level of the service they received. This might not be very useful as the IFA is able to choose who whom you meet, but if an IFA refuses your request then it is possible to ask what the reason is? For any financial advisors you're interested in, check out the VouchedFor* reviews. Check out the most popular Brentwood retirement planning site for more.



6 - Location
It is not a secret that you should meet anyone conducting business on behalf of you. It is easier to do this by searching for an IFA near you. Click here to find an IFA or financial advisor close to you.

7 - Understand what services they offer
The services a financial adviser provides will differ, so be sure the financial advisor you talk to is a professional in the specific area you require help in. Although some advisors offer assistance on various topics, they don't sell financial products. Others provide specific advice such as taxation. Check their credentials and what areas of expertise they have and also investigate the company where they work. You must be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority to sell financial products and give investment advice.

8 - How Often Do They Go Over Your Circumstance?
Find out how frequently they perform reviews. A great financial advisor will ensure that you are reviewed at least once a calendar year. A lot of people will conduct an annual review, but a thorough review every year is usually enough to make sure your plan for financial planning is in line with your changing circumstances. See the best Franklin financial planner website for updates.



9 - Cost
From the very beginning, you must are aware of the costs associated with your advice. If you are an IFA is paid via commission from certain products that they sell (mortgage or insurance) be sure to know how it works, because despite what they may claim, it is you who will ultimately pay for the advice. The Retail Distribution Review (RDR) is a requirement for advisers to be more transparent about the fees they charge for financial advice. Some IFAs provide a complimentary initial meeting. The fee is contingent upon the decision you make to follow their advice. Others cost approximately PS500 for an initial assessment. An advisor can still provide you an estimate of the price based on the job they'll be carrying out.

10 - Be Sure To Get The Document In Writing
It is essential to demand the cost of the services to be disclosed in writing prior to working with a financial consultant. This is a way to ensure there are no extra costs, and will also clarify the cost of the services you will receive. Make sure to have your financial adviser give you a written agreement outlining the services being provided so that both of you are aware on the work that will be completed.