FAQs
How do you charge for advice?
We charge a fixed fee for creating a comprehensive financial plan, covering analysis, cashflow modelling, and recommendations. If you choose ongoing planning and investment management, we charge an ongoing fee based on a percentage of assets under management, and we will also explain any platform and underlying investment costs before you proceed.
Can you help me retire early?
Yes, we can use cashflow modelling to test whether retiring early looks affordable based on your assets, income, and spending. The model helps you understand the trade-offs and risks and can be updated as circumstances and markets change.
Where can I find information about your fees?
Fee information is available on our website, and we will also confirm charges in writing before any work starts. If your situation is complex, the quoted fee may differ, and we will explain why.
How do your fees compare to other advisers?
Fees vary across advisers depending on the service offered. Our fees are designed to reflect a comprehensive planning service rather than one-off product transactions, and we will explain the scope so you can compare like for like.
How do I know your fees are fair?
We explain our fees clearly and what is included, so you can see the work and support you are paying for. Where relevant, we also show platform and underlying investment costs, so you understand the total cost of ownership.
Do you charge VAT?
No, we do not charge VAT on our fees. If this changes in future, we would explain it before you proceed.
Do you get commission from product providers?
No, we do not receive commission from product providers. Our fees are agreed with you, which helps keep our recommendations independent.
Do you charge a percentage or fixed fees?
We use a fixed fee for initial work, including the financial plan and onboarding. Ongoing investment management is normally charged as a percentage of assets under management, and all charges are agreed in advance.
What do you typically charge for a financial plan?
A comprehensive financial plan typically costs between £2,495 and £4,495, depending on complexity. We will confirm a clear quote once we understand the scope of work.
What's your minimum fee?
Our minimum fee for creating a financial plan is £2,495. This reflects the time and analysis involved in comprehensive financial planning.
Can you help me plan my retirement?
Yes, retirement planning is a core part of our work. We help you understand how much you may need, how to structure income from pensions and investments, and how tax may apply. Investments can go down as well as up, and tax rules can change.
Is the first meeting free?
Yes, the first meeting is free and there is no obligation to proceed. It is a chance to see whether financial planning with us is right for you.
Can you advise on life insurance and protection?
Yes, we can advise on protection such as life insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection. We will help you understand what each policy covers, the key exclusions, and the costs, so cover fits your wider plan.
Can you help with ISAs and investments?
Yes, we advise on ISAs and general investment accounts as part of your overall plan. We will help you use tax-efficient wrappers appropriately and build a portfolio aligned to your goals and risk tolerance. Investments can go down as well as up.
Can you help with Inheritance Tax planning?
Yes, we can help you understand your potential Inheritance Tax position and discuss planning options. We will work at a high level on allowances and strategies, and we can liaise with your solicitor where legal work is needed. Tax depends on individual circumstances and rules can change.
Can you help with later life or care planning?
Yes, we can help you plan for potential later-life care costs as part of your retirement planning. We will look at your income, assets, and options so you understand what could be affordable and what trade-offs may be involved.
Can you advise on final salary pension transfers?
We do not advise on defined benefit, also known as final salary, pension transfers because they require a Pension Transfer Specialist. If you are considering a transfer, we can refer you to a suitably qualified specialist and help you integrate the outcome into your wider plan. Giving up guaranteed benefits is a major decision.
Can you advise on SIPPs?
Yes, we can advise on Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs). We will help you decide whether a SIPP is appropriate, and how it should be used alongside your other pensions and investments. Investments within a SIPP can go down as well as up.
Do you offer ethical or sustainable investing?
Yes, we can reflect ethical or sustainability preferences in your investment strategy where this aligns with your goals. We will explain how any screening or exclusions may affect diversification and risk. Investments can go down as well as up.
Can you help expats or non-UK residents?
We mainly focus on UK-resident clients because cross-border advice can be complex. If you are non-UK resident, we can explain the limits of what we can do and may suggest you use an adviser who specialises in your jurisdiction.
How do you measure client satisfaction?
We actively seek feedback from clients and use it to improve our service. As our review library grows, we will publish more reviews on the website.
Do you have case studies I can read?
Yes, we have anonymised case studies that show how we have helped clients in similar situations, with personal details removed. These examples are for illustration only and are not a guide to future outcomes.
How can I check you're properly regulated?
You can verify our FCA authorisation by searching the FCA Register for Apricity Wealth Management. Our firm reference number (FRN) is 197107.
Are you insured?
Yes, Professional Indemnity Insurance is in place through our regulatory network, Valid Path. This provides cover for the advice we give, subject to the policy terms.
How do you keep my data secure?
We take data security seriously and comply with UK GDPR and data protection law. Your information is stored securely, access is restricted, and we only share data with your permission or where required by law.
What if something goes wrong or I want to complain?
We have a formal complaints procedure and will investigate any concerns promptly and fairly. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you can refer the matter to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which is independent and free to use.
Are my investments protected?
Client assets held through an FCA-authorised platform are normally kept separate from the firm’s own money under FCA client asset rules. FSCS protection may apply in certain circumstances, depending on the product type and the reason for a loss, and it does not protect you from normal market movements. We will explain how your investments are held and what protections apply before you invest.
Is there a minimum amount I need to invest?
There is no fixed minimum, but our service is built around comprehensive planning rather than one-off transactions. We tend to work best with clients who have meaningful pension savings or investments, or who are making major financial decisions where planning adds value.
Can you help if I already have investments elsewhere?
Yes, we can review existing pensions and investments held with other providers. If consolidation is appropriate, we will explain the pros and cons and any costs or loss of benefits before you decide.
Can you help me take my pension tax-efficiently?
Yes, we can help you plan how to take pension income in a tax-efficient way. We will explain the options available, such as tax-free cash and income drawdown, and how these interact with other income and allowances. Tax depends on your circumstances and rules can change.
Do you specialise in particular types of clients?
We particularly enjoy working with professionals, business owners, and people in or approaching retirement who value long-term planning. That said, we are happy to work with anyone who is looking for comprehensive advice and a clear financial plan.
Can you help after bereavement?
Yes, we can support you through the financial decisions that often follow a bereavement. We will take things at your pace and help you understand your options before making changes.
Can you help if I've sold a business?
Yes, we can help you plan around business sale proceeds, including tax considerations, investment strategy, and retirement planning. The work focuses on turning sale proceeds into a sustainable plan for your future.
Can you help if I've inherited money?
Yes, we can help you decide how to use and invest an inheritance in line with your goals. We will consider your wider finances and any tax considerations before making recommendations. Investments can go down as well as up, and tax depends on your circumstances.
Do you work with people approaching retirement or already retired?
Yes, many of our clients are approaching retirement or already retired. We help with pension decisions, income planning, and ongoing reviews so your plan stays on track as your needs change.
Do you work with company directors or self-employed people?
Yes, we work with company directors and self-employed business owners, particularly around selling a business or managing proceeds after a sale. We help you plan what the money is for, how it can be invested, and how tax may affect the outcome.
Do you work with younger clients?
Yes, we also work with younger clients who are focused on building wealth and want a structured plan. The key is having clear goals and being willing to engage with the planning process.
What type of clients do you usually work with?
We typically work with people who want comprehensive financial planning, often at a significant financial crossroads such as approaching retirement, after a business sale, following divorce, or after an inheritance. The aim is to help you understand whether you have enough, and how to structure your finances in a tax-aware way.
Is your firm Chartered?
Yes, Apricity Wealth Management holds Chartered Firm status awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). This recognises firms that meet specific standards around professionalism and client service. We maintain this status through ongoing requirements.
How long is the first meeting?
The first meeting usually lasts about an hour. That is typically enough time for a proper discussion without taking up too much of your day.
What happens in the first meeting?
We will talk through your current position, what you want to achieve, and any financial concerns you have. We will explain our planning process, the likely next steps, and the costs before you decide whether to proceed.
What should I bring to our first meeting?
You do not need to bring lots of paperwork to the first meeting. If you have recent pension statements, investment valuations, or other documents you want to discuss, they can be helpful, and we can gather any missing information afterwards.
Do you charge for the first meeting?
No, we do not charge for the first meeting and there is no obligation to proceed. It is a chance to understand what you want to achieve and to explain how our planning process works.
How do I book a first meeting with you?
Initial meetings can be booked via the contact form on our website, by email, or by telephone. We will agree a suitable time and whether you would like to meet in person or on a video call.
Which areas do you cover?
We are based in Brighton and Hove and work extensively across Sussex. We also work with clients throughout the UK using video meetings, so you do not need to be local.
What's your FCA number?
Our firm reference number (FRN) is 197107. You can verify our authorisation by searching for Apricity Wealth Management on the FCA Register.
What makes Apricity different from other financial advisers?
We focus on comprehensive financial planning, starting with cashflow modelling to test whether your plans are affordable over time. We look at your whole financial picture, including income, spending, pensions, investments, and protection, and we use an evidence-based approach to investing. We are independent, so our recommendations are not tied to specific product providers.
Where can I see reviews from your clients?
We are still building our bank of client reviews and will add them to the website as they become available. In the meantime, we can explain our process and the service standards you can expect.
Do I have to sign up at the first meeting?
No, you do not have to commit at the first meeting. Many people prefer to take time to reflect on what we have discussed before making any decisions.
Are you Chartered or Certified?
Yes, our lead adviser is a Chartered Financial Planner. Chartered status is awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute and reflects high professional standards and ongoing learning. We will explain what this means in practice, including how we stay up to date.
Do you only work with clients in Brighton & Hove, or can you help people elsewhere?
We are based in Brighton and Hove and work with clients across the UK. Meetings can be held by video call, so location does not prevent you working with us. Where needed, we can also meet in person in Sussex.
How long have you been a financial adviser?
Our lead financial adviser has worked in the profession for 20 years and has been Chartered since 2016. We set up Apricity Wealth Management to deliver evidence-based financial planning that focuses on your wider life, not just products.
Is there parking at your office?
Yes, there is a car park directly opposite the building. We will share practical details ahead of your visit, so you know where to go.
Where do you meet clients in person?
Face-to-face meetings are held at our office at Platf9rm in Hove. We use private meeting space so we can discuss your finances confidentially.
Can we meet online or do I have to come to your office?
You can meet us in person or by video call. We will suggest the most suitable format depending on what we need to cover, and you can switch between options over time. The service and charges are the same whichever meeting format you choose.
Is Apricity regulated by the FCA?
Yes, Apricity Wealth Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means we must meet FCA standards and follow their rules for advice and client money. It also gives you access to services such as the Financial Ombudsman Service and, where eligible, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
Are you part of a network?
Yes, we are part of the Valid Path network. The network provides regulatory and compliance support and arranges our Professional Indemnity Insurance, while we remain independent in the advice we give. You still deal directly with us for your planning and ongoing service.
Can I see an example financial plan?
Yes, we can share examples of our financial planning reports with personal details removed. This helps you understand the style of analysis and recommendations you would receive.
Can you help me consolidate my pensions?
Yes, we can assess whether consolidating multiple pensions makes sense for you. We compare costs, investment options, and any valuable benefits or guarantees, and we will only recommend a transfer if it is suitable. Consolidation is not always the right option.
Can you advise on workplace pensions?
We can review workplace pensions as part of your wider financial plan, although we do not typically provide detailed advice on day-to-day scheme choices. Where advice is needed, we will explain what we can cover and what information we require.
Can you help with my personal pension?
Yes, we advise on personal pensions, including contributions, consolidation, and how you might take benefits. We will review charges, features, and tax considerations so any decisions are made in the context of your overall plan. Pension and tax rules can change and depend on your circumstances.
Can you advise on equity release?
We do not advise on equity release, as it requires specific specialist permissions. If it looks relevant to your retirement planning, we can discuss the implications at a high level and refer you to a specialist equity release adviser.
Can you help with mortgages?
We do not advise on mortgages directly. We can work alongside a mortgage adviser and help you understand how a mortgage fits into your wider financial plan.
How often will we meet?
Most clients have a formal annual review meeting. We can meet more often if you prefer, especially during the early stages of planning or when life changes.
Do you have a client portal?
Yes, we provide a secure client portal for investments and documents. Access is protected and you can use it to view valuations and key paperwork in one place.
Can I see my investments online?
Yes, you will have secure online access to view your investments. You can check valuations, performance, and documents at any time, subject to the platform’s availability.
Am I getting independent financial advice?
Yes. We are independent, so we can recommend products and investments from across the market rather than being tied to a single provider. We do not take commission from product providers, so our recommendations are based on your needs.
What happens if you leave or retire?
We have continuity arrangements in place, so clients are supported if your adviser is unexpectedly unavailable. If needed, your ongoing service would be handed over to another suitably qualified adviser, with your agreement.
Can you work with my mortgage adviser?
Yes, we can coordinate with your mortgage adviser when they need information from us, such as pension or investment details. We do not provide mortgage advice, but we can help make sure borrowing decisions fit your wider financial plan.
Can you work with my accountant or solicitor?
Yes, with your permission we can liaise with your accountant, solicitor, and other professional advisers. This helps ensure your tax, legal, and financial planning work together.
What if my circumstances change?
If your circumstances change, we will review your plan and update it. This might include changes such as a new job, an inheritance, divorce, or a move into retirement, so your plan stays aligned with your goals.
Do you do cashflow forecasting?
Yes, cashflow planning is a core part of our service. We use modelling to show how your finances may look over time, based on agreed assumptions, and to test different decisions. Forecasts are not guarantees and will change if circumstances or markets change.
How often will I hear from you?
Contact frequency depends on what we agree in your service. We normally hold at least an annual planning review, and we will also speak when your circumstances change or key decisions are needed.
What happens if you're on holiday?
We will let you know in advance if your adviser is away. We have arrangements to ensure urgent matters are handled, and we will pick up anything non-urgent as soon as possible.
I'd prefer to work with a female adviser – is that you?
Yes, our lead financial adviser is female. If this matters to you, we can make sure your meetings and ongoing service are handled directly with her.