Matt Thomas

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed to sort my pensions out and needed help

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt has been fantastic from start to finish

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing we are very happy

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

sanity check i was doing the right things before early retirement

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

allowed me to pick my own time for early retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

big yes!

What could they have done better?

nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was looking for financial planning advice to get the best out of my pension pot and other money.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He has advised on and organised my finances so that I am able to make the most of opportunities to, as far as possible, guarantee sufficient income for my retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

With several pensions between myself and my wife and nearing retirement age we needed advice on whether to consolidate all or some of them as some had defined benefits.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He has helped us to understand the benefits of forward and ongoing financial planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely, we are in a much better place financially and have a greater understanding of our investments.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I could see.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My late husband contacted Matt for advise on pensions.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt Thomas has been financial advisor to myself and my late husband for several years. We found him to be most helpful. Last year when my husband passed away, Matt could not have been more understanding and caring when advising me and sorting out his pensions. Matt is a true professional with a lovely sense of humour and friendly nature. His knowledge and understanding of my financial situation meant I could completely trust his advice given with great confidence. I would not hesitate to recommend Matt to my friends.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

N/a

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Both my wife and I approaching retirement and wanting best advice regarding existing pensions and finances in general

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Holistic financial advice for my wife and me, taking into account all our circumstances, with specific advice on investments, pensions and life insurance

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome has probably been the best it could be given the recent turbulent conditions, and planning over the longer term

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything we'd have wanted Matt to do differently

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed advice on investing a divorce settlement to allow future financial stability

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt has spent a considerable amount of time understanding my retirement aspirations and has been patient and empathetic whilst I have got to grips with his recommendations. He has shown compassion and understanding throughout my independent financial planning and his advice has given me the confidence to enjoy the benefits of my investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, following Matt's advice, I am confident that I will be financially secure through my retirement

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

When I became a full time carer and had to give up full time employment.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt presented a number of options on how to finance my retirement that were always easy to understand and I was never pressurised into making decisions hastily.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

There were no areas that I felt that I needed more advice.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Requirement to establish personal pension due to limitations in company scheme.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Guidance on investments with financial planning meetings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - Confidence that finances are well managed and there is a plan in place for the future.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - all good

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I initially needed advice regarding my pension and advice for income protection as i am a contractor.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt and his colleague Jared were able to demonstrate what my finances would most likely look like upon retirement, thus reassuring me i was in good hands as it was a huge worry for

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I really needed help and advice and like most people, pensions is an area that filled me with dread. Matt was able to give me lots of helpful advice with the multiple pensions i had and explain in lay terms how I could put them together and make them work for me and put steps in place for my future and now i feel reassured for my retirement.

What could they have done better?

Keep in contact. They do go off radar a bit.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Multiple pensions that I needed advice on and managing

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Advised me of the best path for what my needs are.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It has been a tough few years for pensions, I have requested reviews with Matthew , he is always available to speak to , I have faith my pensions will increase for my retirement

What could they have done better?

I would like a pro active review of needs.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My father passed and they were his advisors.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt has reassured me at a difficult time and provided helpful advice which has allowed for a draw down from the inherited pension. He is also looking into mortgages for my sister and I to keep the family home. Matt has been very helpful with loading with solicitors for this so that I do not have to during a difficult time.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matt

Matt was honest and up front with his advice and should I need a financial advisor in the future he will be my first call

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Matt Thomas helped you since your last review?

Pension investment general financial investment advice

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Matt Thomas helped you since your last review?

Latest update on financial situation and options, plus additional help in reviewing mortgage options for our daughter.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was looking to take early retirement and need sound financial advice on whether it was practical.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Explained how my risk is spread and how I could make some changes to maximise income when things hopefully pick up.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes my financial situation is stable but of course various economic and other problems have caused a slight worry.

What could they have done better?

Maybe got in touch before the annual review to reassure me that he was aware that things were difficult and suggest any changes.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was looking to retire and required Financial advice

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Helped me to understand short/medium/long term financial decisions and how tax efficiency

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - I have managed to retire and am now benefiting from Matt's advice

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Inheritance

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He's been patient, forthcoming, responsive to every (detailed!) query to help us understand products, risk and even sustainability/ethics of our investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but hopeful that we will in the long term.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - apart from being free! :)

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Matt Thomas helped you since your last review?

Continuing financial and pension planning advice

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Matt Thomas helped you since your last review?

He has given me good advise during these difficult times when asked, helped with pension queries and has always always been easy to contact.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed advice because I was transferring a defined benefits pension worth over 30,000 pounds

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He provided me with all the paperwork I needed to get the transfer done in a timely manner and at a reasonable price compared to other advisers.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I only needed the advice so the advice given didn't really matter, although it was very interesting and thorough. My transfer is going ahead.

What could they have done better?

Not really. Very good service.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Due to my health situation and the inflexibility of my DB pension toward beneficaries I wanted to move my funds to a drawdown style pension. My circumstances after various medical investigations pointed towards the fact that I may not survive to pension age - some 6 years away at the time. The amount of pension I would receive in early retirement also was not considerable enough The DB benefit advantage of a guaranteed income level at pension age was thus redundant. Being single meant I was not able to pass on the funds to a beneficiary other than a spouse or partner only, as the DB dictates, in the event of my death. Two major benefits were thus irrelevant to me. I may need funds for medical and care help before retirement which moving it to a drawdown pension (depite the tax implication) would help me with and give me much needed peace of mind. I could also pass the funds to friends or a charity with a drawdown pension upon my death.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

I approached many, many Financial Advisors who would/could not help in my wish to transfer the pension. The pension company (and law) requires financial advice to be given in the event of the transfer. Luckily my pension company agreed that if it was a positive or negative outcome from the advisor they would still transfer the funds if I wished so. Matt performed the necessary work and advice admirably including a face to face meeting, with an informative questions and answers session. Whilst my pension company proved to be tardy and bad at prompt communication Matt persevered. The report was detailed and very informative and gave me lots to consider and weigh up the pros and cons. He was clear in his advice and understood my needs and concerns. His manner was professional but also friendly and empathetic, something I valued in my unique circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

After much consideration and further medical tests I decided to transfer from my DB pension to a drawdown pension as it was now clear that the major benefits of the scheme did not merit me remaining in it. Matt signed the required forms willingly stating he had given advice. I then personally began (as is required due to the nature of my final decision), the task of the transfer to a drawdown pension company who agreed they would take the funds even if the advice was to remain with my old pension provider.

What could they have done better?

Everthing was done perfectly, I could not fault Matt at all.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Transfer of Defined Benefits pension

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt's specialist knowledge was invaluable as was his attention to detail when providing the advice. Matt was very thorough and he always made himself available to speak by phone. As such, the end to end process was slick and I always felt comfortable that I was receiving the best advice whilst being kept fully informed at each stage of the process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Matt

Matt provided an excellent service . He took the time to really understand my financial and personal situation and explained his recommendation in great detail. He is approachable and personable and down to earth and I would not hesitate to recommend him .

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To consolidate pensions

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Contacted the pension providers & summarised the available options - Matt also made a clear recommendation

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - we'd wanted to consolidate pensions for a number of years & have finally done this!

What could they have done better?

No suggestions

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Death of my husband. In addition, the need to transfer some defined contribution pensions into a suitable contract.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Clear, easily understood advice delivered in a personable manner I never feel rushed as Matt is patient with my questions and makes sure I fully understand, even if he has to go over something again. I mentioned to Matt that my pet hate was filling in paperwork, so after we have discussed and agreed the next step, Matt completes the paperwork, ready for my review and signature. This has made a huge difference to me. At all times I feel Matt is working in my best interest.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Has met expectations and beyond.

What could they have done better?

Nothing in my opinion, beyond finding him earlier, and thus avoiding the anguish caused by another financial advisor, who failed to deliver.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Unhappy with previous company

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Has given me confidence that my financial situation is secure

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Advice as hoped

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As I'm getting older, I decided it was time to take my finances more seriously. I don't have the time to manage it myself, and with two BTL properties I needed some professional help.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He has helped me plan for the future, take into account big ticket items I want to buy further down the line - and the realisation that I can hopefully retire earlier than planned!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far so good

What could they have done better?

nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Pension Advice

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Helped transfer pension pot to a better one

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, it’s much more productive and has increased in value. We also get regular updates

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

All the above boxes I have ticked

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Many years of financial advise

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

nothing excellent service over many years

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Several different circumstances, most recent a divorce scenario previously general financial guidance and planning.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Gave me clear direct advice regarding different financial aspects and continues to help me review my financial situation and make adjustments as and when required.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had savings which were sitting in the bank, not working for us. Felt it was time to manage our money more proactively and also was considering semi-retirement. We had also not yet made wills.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Took us through all the above subjects and laid out options for us to consider. Very helpful in explaining the intricacies and helping us navigate the choices.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Very happy with how things have turned out so far.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching deferred retirement, I had several work pensions and needed advice on what to do with them ie take full cash to invest or take the offered pension with cash sum. I also had some inheritance, and needed advice on what to do with it.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt carried our exhaustive work on around 6 pensions and advised the best outcome with all things considered. Matt explained all aspects of the process clearly, and followed up with comprehensive documentation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, most definitely

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Matt was very approachable, and took his time to explain everything clearly.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Seeking advice on a pension investment

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt explained everything fully in plain layman's terms and has helped with any queries we have had promptly and efficiently. He is always happy to advise us whenever we need it. A pair of safe hands

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was thinking of retiring and got Matts advice as to whether this was financially viable.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He asked first of all what I wanted, went through all my investments. At every step he explained what he felt would be the best way forward and why. He produced an investment plan for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have in that I know what I have coming in on a monthly basis and that I have future security.

What could they have done better?

The only thing that comes to mind is explaining what the charges will be more fully.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As I moved in to my 60's, I realised I needed to get on top of my financial future.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He gave me a clear understanding of my financial position and the choices available to me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, thus far.

What could they have done better?

I am happy with what Matt has advised.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed comprehensive advice on Pension planning

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

restructured my pension arrangements and put in place new investment management

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

nothing as far as I am aware

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was already receiving financial advice from the business on other matters where Matt is employed when l was made aware that he could review the options for a modest level of funds in a private pension that had been dormant for many years.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt conducted a thorough review and carried out an assessment with regard to the level of financial risk I was prepared to take to ensure I understood this. He then discussed the options that fitted my profile and recommended where the funds should be transferred to secure better growth.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, things have moved in the right direction, and resulted in me consolidating funds from another pension that had been closed. Understandably the current economic situation owing to the Pandemic has seen these reduce but these have since recovered. Owing to my retirement I am now in the process of consolidating funds from another pension.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We needed advice on changing mortgage providers and didn't want the hassle of doing ourselves and our friends recommended them

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

He gave honest advice, discouraging us where necessary, never making us feel under pressure to invest or move money where charges would be incurred unnecessarily

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Apart from a blip at the start of the Pandemic yes its all been moving in the right direction

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure if there is anything.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Financial planning required

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Excellent advice regarding pensions and investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Moving my main With profits pension to another company and incorporating in another pension plan. taking out buy to let mortgage on rental property.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt has assisted me on many occasions re all my questions on how my funds are being managed, how I can access them when required in the most cost effective way along with advise on other products.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes, although the last year has been difficult for everyone Matt gave me excellent advice on how to handle my pension meaning that my funds have stayed safe during this period.

What could they have done better?

To be honest nothing, apart from being a very professional and efficient adviser Matt is also very friendly and customer focused and is always ready to help whenever it is required. I trust Matt and the company to look after my funds which is probably the best endorsement I can give.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Set up company pension

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt was very thorough, efficient and his explanations completely understandable

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Inheritance

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt took time to understood and provide for our attitudes to risk and took us through budgeting for our lifestyle to ensure we were comfortable with the investments we decided to make. He is responsive, warm, professional, and knowledgeable, and easy to relate to.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but sure we will in time!

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted Matt to review my long established pension several years ago, checking it was with the ‘correct’ organisation.

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt was exceptional and I have used his services for several years now. He even came to my house to discuss my finances and pension scheme. Matt goes above and beyond, he is totally trustworthy and professional. He looks into all options and outcomes communicating at all levels.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. I would not trust anybody else other than Matt with my finances and pension.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Husband was looking to retire before state pension age and also look at an interest only mortgage which we could convert to an equity release one at a later stage

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt assisted sorting out all my husband's pensions and transferring all into one pot with Aegon and arrange for us to drawdown as and when needed. He has done a thorough financial plan to ensure we have sufficient funds to live on and enjoy throughout our retirement. So far the fund appears to be doing well under Aegon's management and Matt's advice. We can rest assured we are in good hands.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes and have recommended him to friends who have also been helped by Matt.

What could they have done better?

nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were looking for advice around some investments but also to ensure we were able to have a 'safe' retirement. We were dealing with some investments funds and also a number of different pension plans so wanted independent advice

How has Matt Thomas helped you?

Matt looked at our whole Portfolio and offered clear and sensible advice which put our minds at rest. He was also able to provide a good tax efficient approach. We know other people who have used Matt before and he was completely discrete with no references to anyone else which gives absolute confidence around confidentiality.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - we have a clear/viewable portfolio and Matt is able to provide intermittent advice where required

What could they have done better?

Nothing