Question 1

Is Adviser Connect free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Adviser Connect is completely free for consumers. There is no charge for being matched with an adviser and no obligation to proceed after the introductory call.

Question 2

Are the financial advisers FCA regulated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every adviser on the Adviser Connect network is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). You can verify any adviser's status on the FCA Register.

Question 3

How does the adviser matching process work?

Accepted Answer

Answer a few short questions about your situation in the chat — it takes around two minutes. Adviser Connect then arranges a free introductory call with a specialist adviser at a time that suits you. There are no forms to fill in and no cold calls.

Question 4

What types of financial advice can I get through Adviser Connect?

Accepted Answer

Advisers on the network specialise in retirement planning, pension consolidation, pension drawdown, inheritance tax planning, estate structuring, investment advice, ISA planning, wealth management, protection insurance (life cover, critical illness, income protection), and financial advice during divorce or after selling a business.

Question 5

Will I receive cold calls or unwanted contact?

Accepted Answer

No. Adviser Connect does not pass your details to multiple firms. You are matched with one specialist adviser and the introduction call is arranged at a time you choose.

Question 6

How much does financial advice cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Advice costs vary depending on the firm and the complexity of your situation. Most UK advisers charge either a percentage of assets advised on (typically 0.5% to 1% per year for ongoing advice), a fixed fee, or an hourly rate. Your matched adviser will explain their fees clearly during the introductory call before any work begins.

Question 7

Is my information kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All information you provide is treated in strict confidence and is only shared with the specialist adviser matched to your needs. Adviser Connect complies with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Question 8

What is the difference between an independent and a restricted adviser?

Accepted Answer

An independent financial adviser (IFA) can recommend products from across the whole market. A restricted adviser can only recommend certain products or providers. Both types must be FCA regulated and act in your best interest. Adviser Connect can match you with either, depending on your needs.

Question 9

Am I protected if something goes wrong?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All advisers on the network are FCA regulated, which means you are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) and have access to the Financial Ombudsman Service if you have a complaint.

Question 10

Do I have to take advice from the matched adviser?

Accepted Answer

No. The introductory call is a no-obligation conversation. You can decide afterwards whether to proceed. If the adviser is not the right fit, you can request a different match.

About Peter Goodwin

Access quality, qualifed wealth, pension and financial advisers