Top Tips to consider when choosing an IFA

When it comes to making life-changing financial decisions, seeking the services of an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) could save you considerable time, money and confusion in the long run. In this blog, Acumen explains what an IFA does and what to consider when choosing a financial adviser or firm.

What is an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA)?

An adviser or firm that provides independent advice is able to consider and recommend all types of retail investment products that could meet your needs and objectives. Independent Financial Advisers consider products from all providers across the market and give unbiased and unrestricted advice.

What to look for when choosing an IFA

There are several things you should think about when choosing an IFA.

Know who you’re dealing with

Think about whether you will be dealing with one adviser, several different advisers, or a team of people. Understand what the adviser charges for their services to ensure that you can afford their services and always check that the adviser is authorised to provide financial advice. You can check the IFA through an independent financial review website such as Vouched For. Angela Maher, Acumen Financial Managing Director is one of the top rated IFA’s and is rated 4.9 / 5.

Consider what advice you need and their relevant experience

Think about what advice you’re looking for. Is it just advice on retirement savings or do you want help with all of your financial planning? Consider the level and experience that the adviser has, particularly in the areas where you think you need help.

Get to know their products and services

Look at the typical clients the IFA supports in their business. Do they have similar needs to yours? Look at the services they offer and think about how they might benefit you. Also, pay attention to the products that they recommend for you. Do they recommend products from the whole market? Or are they tied to one or a small selection of providers?

Why choose Acumen?

Financial planning can be a complex task with many interconnected variables. Although it is possible to conduct your own financial planning, expert financial advice can make a world of difference towards realising your financial goals and dreams.

Acumen follows a six-step model for financial planning, which includes getting to know you and your financial situation, as well as gathering information about your financial history, your existing financial plans and your savings and borrowings. We then analyse this data as a team and present you with a tailored and transparent financial plan that offers you value for money and peace of mind.

Our highly qualified, and FCA registered IFAs speak and write in plain English and will always offer you the most comprehensive independent advice. We have more than 100 years’ worth of experience and our local connections and alliances also allow us to offer a holistic and complete financial plan.

Our independence means that our approach is unbiased, and impartial, with no hidden costs. We agree what work we will do for you and how much it will cost, so there are never any unexpected charges. With our combined team effort you can rely on our advice to be practical, down to earth and relevant to your circumstances and aspirations.

To discuss your financial matters with one of our dedicated team of financial advisers please contact us today on 0151 520 4353 or email info@acumenfinancial.co.uk. For more information please visit www.acumenfinancial.co.uk.