Short answer
A first meeting is usually free. The adviser asks about your situation and goals, explains what they offer and how they charge, and gives you their Financial Services Guide. You don't have to agree to anything on the day.
What usually happens
- Getting to know you. The adviser asks about your work, super, savings, debts, family and when you'd like to retire.
- Your goals. What you want retirement to look like and what's worrying you.
- What they offer. The services they provide and whether they can help with what you need.
- How they charge. Their fees, ideally in dollars. See what advisers cost.
- Next steps. If you go ahead, they prepare a Statement of Advice that sets out their advice and costs. Moneysmart says you should receive it and have time to decide.
What to bring
You don't need everything for a first chat, but these help the adviser understand your situation:
- Recent super statements
- A rough idea of your income, savings, investments and debts
- Any insurance policies you hold
- Any Centrelink or Age Pension letters, if you receive payments
- Your questions, written down
Questions to ask at the first meeting
Based on Moneysmart's checklist:
- What are your qualifications, and what do you specialise in?
- How much will your advice cost, and what's included?
- Do you receive commissions or other incentives?
- How do you choose the products you recommend?
- How often would we meet?
- How do you handle complaints?
- How do I end the arrangement if I want to?
Before you meet: check they're registered
Every financial adviser who gives personal advice must be listed on ASIC's Financial Advisers Register. It takes a minute to check. Here's how to check an adviser.
After the meeting
There's no obligation to go ahead. Moneysmart suggests meeting more than one adviser and comparing them. Take time to read anything they give you before you sign.
Common questions
Do you pay for a first meeting with a financial adviser?
Usually not. Moneysmart says financial advisers don't usually charge for the first meeting.
Do I have to sign up at the first meeting?
No. You can take time to think, compare advisers and ask questions before agreeing to anything.
Can my partner come to the first meeting?
Yes. Couples often meet an adviser together, especially when planning retirement.
Want to talk it through with a licensed adviser?
Book a free 30-minute call by phone, Zoom or in person. Advisers pay Meet My Adviser a fee for each introduction. Any advice you later choose to get is charged by the adviser, who must explain their fees first.
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This page is factual information only. Meet My Adviser is not licensed to give financial advice and doesn't recommend products. Figures are from the sources listed and can change; check the source for the latest.