Where to find a regulated financial adviser 

How to find the right financial adviser for you

To find the right financial adviser, start by being clear about the type of advice you need, such as help with pensions or investments. Always check that the adviser is authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland, as this gives you access to complaints procedures and the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) if problems arise.

You should confirm the adviser’s qualifications and experience, understand whether they are independent or restricted to certain products, and ask how they charge for their services, including whether they receive commission. Before deciding, compare a few advisers to assess their fees, experience and services, and always ask for written details of charges so you can make an informed choice.

Where to start?

To find the right financial adviser, start by identifying the type of advice you need – for example, are you looking for help with investments or pensions? Once you’ve clarified your needs, use our choosing a financial adviser checklist below.

What should you check before choosing a financial adviser?

Are they authorised? 

Always check if the adviser is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Working with an unregulated financial adviser means you may not be able to use complaints procedures or compensation schemes. The Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) cannot investigate complaints against an unauthorised firm or financial adviser.

What is their status? 

Check what types of financial products the adviser can advise on. Are they independent – meaning they can advise on all products across the market – or are they restricted to products from a limited number of providers? This should be made clear at your first meeting.

Do they have the right qualifications and experience? 

Check if the adviser holds a recognised professional qualification and has experience helping people in the same position as you, such as planning for retirement or buying a home.

How do they charge? 

Find out what fees the adviser charges and whether ongoing advice is included. If not, what will the cost be? Ask if they receive commission from financial services firms for selling certain products. You should get a document outlining their charges the first time you deal with them.

Have you compared a few advisers? 

Contact several advisers to compare their cost, qualifications, and experience before making your decision.

How can you compare adviser fees?

Ask each adviser for a quote for the product you’re interested in, both with and without costs included. This will help you understand the difference and choose what is best for you.