There’s no such thing as a typical client, but there is a theme with many of our private clients; late 40’s to 60’s, with a range of pensions, often combining DB (final salary), workplace and private DC schemes, often with a partner with similar pensions. Sometimes with other non-pension wealth which when combined with property can lead to potential IHT liability.

We have always been strictly fee-based, working on a time cost basis, and prefer to develop a bespoke proposal for clients* rather than apply a crude percentage of assets under management, for the simple reason that the same percentage of £300,000 and £600,000 does not necessarily equate to twice the work.

As an example, initial fees are likely to be between £2,000-£5,000 for the above scenario. More complex situations including pension tax and IHT may increase the fee, but our input can often mitigate or defer the effects of these taxes. On the other hand, a straightforward consolidation of a couple of simple DC schemes may cost less. For pension planning, we usually recommend regular reviews, at least annually, at which we review objectives, investments, income requirements, tax position, legislative changes, as well as a review of your general circumstances. Again, the cost of this is time-based, and we would expect it to cost between £500-£2,500, depending on the complexity of your circumstances.

Our initial minimum fee is £750. This is due to the fixed costs of compliance. We believe in accessible advice, so we will try to accomodate people wherever we can.

We can be paid either in cash from your bank account, or via your pension products - many pension providers facilitate this to add more flexibility for clients.

*The only exception to this is for insurance products such as life or health insurance. For this we find it easier for all concerned to be paid by the insurer. If the commission exceeds the reasonable time spent, we will look to use excess to reduce premiums for your benefit.