for financial advisers only


Check whether an adviser is authorised by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

FSA's central register

Find a financial adviser

Find a financial adviser

If you don’t already have a financial adviser there are a number of ways you can find one.

Often, personal recommendation is a good way, although you should check with the Financial Services Authority (FSA) to be sure the adviser is authorised by them. You can do this by telephoning 020 7066 5256 or by visiting their website.

If you need help or advice on Skandia products, our new search tool, Find a Skandia Registered Adviser, can help you find an adviser in your local area who is registered to do business with Skandia.

If you would like to search across the whole of the adviser market, including advisers who do not currently do business with Skandia, there are a number of ways you can do this, including www.unbiased.co.uk, an independent portal for finding a financial adviser in your locality.

Choosing your financial adviser

For most people, their relationship with their financial adviser is a long-term one. That’s why it’s important to get the most from it. Here are a few things to consider:

  • Expertise: most people have specific financial planning needs. If you are interested in a particular area of investing, such as retirement or inheritance tax planning, you can choose an adviser with appropriate experience in that field.
  • Flexibility: is it more convenient to see them at your home or at the office? Check with your adviser to see how flexible they are.
  • Payment: different types of advisers are paid for their services in different ways. From 31 December 2012 the rules about paying for financial services are changing. Instead of being paid by commission – currently the most common payment method – advisers will be paid by fees. You can find out more about this here.
  • Comfort: it makes sense to deal with people you feel comfortable with. For example, if you prefer to deal with a female adviser, some sites allow you to filter your online search by gender.
  • Trust: be sure that you’re putting your trust in someone with the appropriate authorisation by checking with the FSA's Central Register.
  • Try before you buy: advisers will typically offer an initial meeting free of charge, giving you an opportunity to see if they are right for you.
  • Ask questions: Don’t be shy. It’s your financial future and you have to get it right. Ask plenty of questions during your first meeting and take your time to think it through before making up your mind.
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