About us & how we work
What is an Independent Financial Adviser?
An Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) is a qualified professional who provides financial advice that is not restricted to any particular provider or product range. Unlike a 'restricted' adviser, an IFA can search the whole of the market to find the most suitable solution for your needs. At Aries Wealth Management, our advice is completely independent — we have no ties to any product provider.
What does it mean that you're authorised and regulated by the FCA?
What's the difference between being directly authorised and being an appointed representative?
Do you provide advice to individuals, businesses, or both?
Getting started
How do I get started?
Is the initial consultation really free?
Do I need to prepare anything before our first meeting?
Can I meet you in person, or is everything done remotely?
Costs & fees
How much do you charge?
Do I pay you directly, or does it come out of my investments?
Will you tell me about all costs upfront?
Pensions & retirement
When should I start planning for retirement?
What's the difference between an annuity and income drawdown?
Can you help me if I've already retired?
What happens to my pension if I die?
Investments
Do I need a large sum to invest?
How do you choose which investments to recommend?
What does 'whole-of-market' actually mean?
Inheritance Tax & estate planning
Do I need to worry about Inheritance Tax?
What can I do to reduce my Inheritance Tax bill?
Protection
Do I really need life assurance?
What's the difference between life assurance, critical illness cover, and income protection?
Ongoing relationship
Do you offer ongoing advice, or is it a one-off service?
How often will we review my plan?
What if I need to get in touch between reviews?
Complaints & protection
What if I'm not happy with the service I receive?
Am I protected if something goes wrong?