How we are paid

At the outset we would normally arrange an initial meeting which is free of charge or obligation. The purpose of this meeting is to understand your needs and objectives and ultimately establish whether, and how, we are able to assist you. At this meeting we will also outline the costs for the service and advice you require.

The FCA has recently introduced an initiative (the Retail Distribution Review - RDR) aimed at removing the distinction between fees and commissions and ultimately making adviser remuneration more transparent. We fully subscribe to this principle.

So, for our non-insurance business, i.e., pensions and investments, we will agree with you whether we are paid by means of a fee payable by you, or by means of a fee incorporated into the cost of any financial product(s) you buy. Typically, you will pay a one-off fee for the initial advice and implementation, then an on-going fee for continuing service as appropriate.

For insurance based contracts commission-based remuneration will however remain, and we will advise you what that is. You can however choose to pay a fee instead.

Where the fee is payable by you it may be subject to VAT. We will advise you whether or not this is the case.

Our typical fees are outlined within our Key facts about our services and costs document, but these should only be used as a guide. To reflect the flexible and bespoke nature of our advice process, we will discuss and agree a fee structure with you which is appropriate to the degree of service and advice we are providing to you.

No charges for fees will be made without prior notification and agreement.