Get Expert Financial Advice Tailored to You
At Stepwoods, we understand that every financial journey is unique. Whether you’re planning for retirement, protecting your family, or growing your investments, our expert advice is designed around your personal goals and circumstances. Connect with us today to start building a clear, confident financial future.
Start with a complimentary consultation
Our Process
Your Journey to Financial Confidence
Every step is designed to deliver clarity, peace of mind, and the highest level of personal service, so your financial journey is supported today and ready for tomorrow’s opportunities.
Step 1 – Complimentary Initial Consultation
Understanding you comes first.
We begin by carefully understanding your goals, situation, and concerns, creating the foundation for tailored advice around your plans.
& Presentation
Your personalised financial roadmap.
Our experts create a personalised plan with comprehensive advice and cashflow modelling, followed by a detailed presentation meeting.
Service
We handle the heavy lifting.
We handle all paperwork and setup with precision, reducing administration as we work with financial institutions on your behalf.
& Support
Keeping your plan on track.
Annual reviews and ongoing guidance keep your plan updated as your needs change, maximising your financial security and growth.
Let’s Talk About Your Financial Future
Please fill out the form or contact us directly to arrange your consultation. Our team is ready to provide clear, honest, expert advice and help you take control of your finances with confidence.
Start with a complimentary consultation
Frequently asked questions
Questions We Often Hear
About Our Services
What makes you different from other financial advisers?
We’re truly independent, which means we’re not tied to any financial institutions or products. We can explore the entire market to find solutions that are right for you, not what’s profitable for us. We treat every client as our only client, providing personalised attention and jargon-free advice.
Can I afford to retire comfortably?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. Through comprehensive cashflow planning and analysis of your current provisions, we can show you what your retirement could look like and identify any gaps or opportunities
Will my family be financially secure if something happens to me?
We assess your family protection needs and recommend appropriate life insurance and income protection solutions. We also help with estate planning to help ensure your wealth passes efficiently to your loved ones.
How can I protect my estate from inheritance tax?
Through strategic estate planning, we can help minimise inheritance tax burdens using various allowances, trusts, and planning strategies. Every situation is different, so we create bespoke solutions for your circumstances.
What if I can’t make it to the office because of age, health, or my personal situation?
Our services are designed to be flexible so we can adapt to your needs – whether that means meeting in a different location, involving trusted family members or other professionals, or adjusting our process to suit your situation. Your wellbeing is our priority, and we’re committed to finding the approach that works best for you
About Our Process
How much does your initial consultation cost?
Nothing. Our initial consultation is completely complimentary with no obligation. We bear the cost because we believe in building relationships first and understanding how we can help before any financial commitment.
What happens during the first meeting?
We’ll explain our services, understand your current situation through our fact-finding process, assess your goals and risk tolerance, and identify your objectives. It’s all about getting to know you and your circumstances.
How long does the planning process take?
After our initial meeting and all details have been gathered, we typically present your suitability report within 2-3 weeks. Implementation timescales vary depending on the complexity of recommendations, but we handle all the paperwork to make it as efficient as possible and keep you updated throughout.
Do you provide ongoing support?
Yes, we offer ongoing advice services including annual reviews, continuous support throughout the year, and regular cashflow projections to ensure your plan stays on track as your circumstances change.
I’ve inherited money - what should I do?
Inheriting wealth brings both opportunities and responsibilities. We help you understand your options, assess your current financial position, and create a plan that aligns the inheritance with your long-term goals.
About Our Qualifications & Regulation
Are you qualified and regulated?
Yes, Stepwoods Financial Planning is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our advisers hold the appropriate qualifications, including Chartered Financial Planner status – the gold standard in financial advice.
What does “independent” actually mean?
As independent financial advisers, we’re not tied to any financial institutions, products, or services. We can consider the entire market and only recommend products when we know they’re suitable for your personal circumstances.
Where are you based and who do you serve?
We’re based in Braintree and serve clients across Hertfordshire, London, and Essex. We offer face-to-face meetings and build long-term relationships with individuals, families, and business owners.
Common Concerns
Why am I paying so much tax?
Many people pay more tax than necessary. Through strategic financial planning, we identify opportunities to minimise your tax burden while maximising wealth accumulation using available allowances and tax-efficient strategies.
How can I make my money work harder?
We help you build diversified investment portfolios tailored to your risk tolerance and goals. Our investment planning focuses on long-term growth strategies designed to build wealth over time.
What if my circumstances change?
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your financial plan. That’s why we provide ongoing reviews and support, adapting your strategy as your personal circumstances, legislation, and market conditions change.