FAQs

Thinking about financial advice but not sure where to start? This page answers the financial planning FAQs we hear most often from clients. It covers our fees, how meetings work, and what to expect once you're working with us.

About Portcullis Financial Planning

Do you offer independent financial advice?

Portcullis Financial Planning provides independent financial advice based on whole-of-market research. We are not tied to any product providers, which allows us to recommend solutions that are appropriate to your individual circumstances.

Are you authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)?

Portcullis Financial Planning Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and has been authorised to provide financial advice since 2010. You can read our FCA firm details here.

Can I meet my financial adviser in person or online?

You can choose to meet your financial adviser either in person or via secure video call, depending on what works best for you.

Where are face-to-face meetings held?

Face-to-face meetings are usually held at our office in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. Home visits may also be available where appropriate.

Is parking available at your office?

Off-road parking is available at our office.

Where are you based and do you work with clients across the UK?

We are based in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, and work with clients across the UK using a combination of in-person and remote meetings.

Are your advisers Chartered or accredited?
Portcullis Financial Planning is not currently a Chartered firm. However, individual advisers hold recognised professional credentials and specialist accreditations, including Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) status and SOLLA accreditation. These qualifications reflect our commitment to delivering high-quality, client-focused financial planning advice
Do you have client reviews or testimonials?

We are proud to have reviews from our clients on both VouchedFor, and Google. You can also watch video testimonials from clients on our homepage to learn more about their experience of working with us

What makes Portcullis Financial Planning different from other financial advisers?
We focus on financial planning. We help clients make informed decisions about their money by creating clear, personalised plans built around their goals, family circumstances and future aspirations. Combined with independent advice, specialist expertise and ongoing support, this ensures our clients receive advice that remains relevant as their lives evolve.
What is your FCA registration number?
We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our FCA registration number is 506044. You can view our registration and regulatory details on the FCA Register website.
How do I book an initial consultation with a financial adviser?
We offer a complimentary initial consultation with no obligation to proceed. You can book a convenient appointment online here or contact our office directly by phone or email. During the meeting, we’ll discuss your objectives, answer your questions, and explain how our financial planning process works.
Is the initial financial consultation free?

Your initial consultation is free of charge and without obligation.

What happens at the first meeting with a financial adviser?

We will discuss your financial situation, goals, and concerns, explain how we work, and outline our financial planning services and fees.

How long does the first meeting last?

An initial meeting typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.

Do I have to become a client after the first meeting?

No. There is no obligation to proceed after the initial consultation.

Do you have a female financial adviser?

We have a female adviser currently in training who is expected to begin advising clients in 2026.

How often will I hear from my financial adviser?

This depends on your agreed service level, but clients receiving ongoing advice will have at least an annual review.

Do you provide cashflow planning?

Yes. Cashflow modelling is a key part of our financial planning and retirement planning services where appropriate.

Can you work with my accountant, solicitor, or mortgage adviser?

Yes. With your permission, we regularly work alongside accountants, solicitors, and mortgage advisers to provide joined-up financial planning.

What happens if my adviser is unavailable or leaves the firm?

Your relationship is with the firm, so another adviser will support you to ensure continuity of advice.

Financial advice

What types of financial advice do you offer?

We provide financial planning and advice covering investments, pensions, retirement planning, inheritance planning, and protection.

Do you advise on pensions and retirement planning?

Yes. We advise on personal and occupational pensions, retirement income planning, and tax-efficient pension withdrawals.

Can you help consolidate pensions?

Yes. We regularly help clients review and consolidate multiple pensions where appropriate.

Do you advise on ethical or sustainable investing?

Yes. Where suitable, we can include ethical or sustainable investment preferences within your financial plan.

Can you help with inheritance and estate planning?

Yes. We provide inheritance tax and estate planning advice and can work alongside solicitors where needed.

Do you advise on mortgages or equity release?

We do not provide mortgage or equity release advice. However, we can work alongside mortgage advisers and refer you to a trusted equity release specialist if required.

Do you advise on defined benefit or final salary pension transfers?

No. We do not advise on defined benefit or final salary pension transfers.

Fees and value

How much does financial advice cost?

We charge clear, agreed fees for financial advice. Fees may be fixed, based on a percentage of assets under advice, or a combination, depending on the service.

Do you offer a free initial consultation?

Yes. Your initial consultation is free.

Do you receive commission?

We do not receive commission for investment advice. Commission may apply to some protection products and is always fully disclosed.

Do you charge VAT on financial advice fees?

No. Our fees are not subject to VAT.

Who we help

Who do you typically work with?

We work with individuals and families across the UK, including professionals, company directors, self-employed clients, and retirees.

Can you help with early retirement planning?

Yes. We can help assess whether early retirement is achievable and build a plan to support it.

Do you work with UK residents only?

Yes. We can only provide financial advice to UK residents.

Trust, security, and regulation

Is my money protected if I work with you?

Eligible investments may be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), subject to limits and eligibility.

What if I have a complaint?

We aim to resolve complaints promptly and fairly. If needed, complaints can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

How do you protect my personal data?

We use robust physical, technical, and organisational measures to protect your personal data.

Are you insured to provide financial advice?

Yes. We hold professional indemnity insurance as required by regulation.

Have you received any awards or recognition?

Yes. We were recognised as a Trusted Adviser by VouchedFor in 2026, based on verified client reviews.

Portcullis Financial Planning
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Whether you have a specific question or want to explore your options, we’re here to help.

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