Thinking about getting financial advice but haven’t taken the first step? If so, you’re not alone. According to an Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) report[i] on Australian attitudes to financial advice, 41 per cent of survey participants who’d intended to seek advice, still hadn’t gone ahead.
If that sounds like you, there’s probably a reason you haven’t made that call … yet.
Maybe you acknowledge the value of professional financial advice but aren’t sure about the cost, or don’t know exactly how a professional adviser could help your situation.
Perhaps you’re unsure where to start, lack confidence when it comes to finances, or just aren’t used to talking about money.
Some financial decisions can feel overwhelming, but proactively seeking professional advice can bring peace of mind that you’re taking steps that are right for you.
How can a financial adviser help?
A financial adviser is there to help you achieve your financial goals.
As our lives change, our finances also need to adapt to our changing needs, lifestyle and any new circumstances.
Even if you confidently manage your day-to-day finances, a professional adviser can help you navigate financially through any significant change, like if you’re:
- buying or selling a property
- planning for retirement
- starting a family
- buying or selling a business
- paying down debt
- receiving an inheritance
- changing jobs
- updating your insurance
- planning your estate
- experiencing a change in health status
- or just wanting to check you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to (like super or pension entitlements)
In my 30,000 hours in the financial planning profession, I’ve seen all kinds of people seeking all kinds of financial advice.
Some just need a single consultation to set them in the right direction, while others want to delve deep to get their financial affairs in order and seek an ongoing arrangement, having found a trusted adviser who’s a good fit for them. (For most people, ongoing advice fees are also tax deductible.)
So if you’ve been meaning to seek professional advice, but just haven’t made the call, shop around for someone you can trust. You should feel comfortable asking them questions, especially if there’s something you don’t understand. An experienced adviser will listen, find out what’s important to you, and put your interests first.
Remember: it’s your money. Have it aligned with your values.
If you’d like to take your next steps with us, we’re here to help. To find out more, or to speak with an adviser, call Align Financial on (02) 9913 9995.
[i] Financial advice: What consumers really think, a report released by ASIC in 2019, available online at: https://download.asic.gov.au/media/5243978/rep627-published-26-august-2019.pdf
