In a world where tax rules change, markets shift, and financial products multiply, it’s no wonder many people feel uncertain about their money. Yet one consistent truth has emerged from years of research — people who seek expert financial advice aren’t just better informed; they’re financially better off.
The 2025 Value of Advice report paints a compelling picture: professional guidance doesn’t just help you manage your money — it transforms your long-term financial wellbeing.
Let’s break down how.
Smarter Choices Through Better Understanding
Financial jargon can be intimidating — but it shouldn’t stand in the way of good decisions. That’s why working with a financial broker is so powerful.
According to the report, individuals who receive financial advice demonstrate significantly higher levels of financial awareness:
- 62% of advised individuals are aware of the tax-free lump sum available at retirement — compared to just 34% of non-advised individuals.
- When asked about the highest level of tax relief available for pension savings (40%), 38% of those who sought advice answered correctly, while only 16% of non-advised individuals knew the answer.
- 60% of advised individuals use Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) or top-ups to boost their pensions — compared with only 25% of those who don’t receive advice.
This deeper knowledge allows advised clients to make smarter, more strategic decisions that benefit them over the long term — whether it’s maximising tax relief, making additional contributions, or simply knowing what their entitlements are.
Confidence in Control: How Advice Reduces Anxiety
Beyond the numbers, financial advice also delivers a crucial — and often underappreciated — benefit: peace of mind.
- 51% of people who’ve worked with a financial advisor feel more confident and in control of their finances.
- Nearly 1 in 4 (24%) report they are financially better off as a direct result of working with a broker.
- Advised clients are twice as likely to feel confident about financial security in retirement (46% vs 22%).
That kind of confidence is priceless. Rather than second-guessing their plans or reacting emotionally to short-term market noise, advised individuals have a clear roadmap and the assurance of expert input.
Regret Is Avoidable — But Only with Action
The report also shines a light on a common feeling among those who didn’t seek advice: regret.
- 1 in 3 retirees who didn’t use a financial broker say they should have done more to prepare for retirement.
- 7% of this group specifically say they regret not consulting a financial broker.
- By contrast, those who did work with a broker are more likely to say they retired at the right time — or even wish they had retired earlier.
In other words, getting advice today could be the difference between contentment and costly hindsight tomorrow.
Don’t Leave Your Financial Future to Chance
Whether you’re just starting to plan for the future, already saving into a pension, or approaching retirement, the evidence is clear: professional financial advice leads to better outcomes.
With decades of experience, Riordan Financial helps clients across Ireland gain clarity, confidence, and control over their financial futures. From pension planning and investments to protection and wealth-building strategies, their expert team provides tailored advice that reflects your goals, values, and life stage.