How do financial advisers actually get paid? 💡 Here’s the clear breakdown: • ✅ Initial consultation: usually free — a chance to ask questions and see if advice is right for you. • 💡 Protection & mortgages: advisers are paid commission by the provider, and this is always shown in your paperwork. • 📉 Investments & pensions: since 2012, commissions have been banned. Instead, you agree a transparent fee structure with your adviser: • 1–3% upfront: this covers the detailed research, planning, and