Unbiased Review: Personally Tested in 2024
Dom Farnell
Co-Founder
Dom, a Co-Founder at TIC, is an avid investor and experienced blogger who specialises in financial markets and wealth management. He strives to help people make smart investment decisions through clear and engaging content.
Twitter ProfileAuthor Bio
How We Test
At The Investors Centre, we pride ourselves on our rigorous fact-checking process. To delve deeper into our meticulous testing procedures and discover how we ensure accuracy and reliability, visit our dedicated page on how we test.
Quick Verdict: Would We recommend Unbiased.co.uk?
Unbiased is a free, user-friendly platform that simplifies finding qualified financial advisers. With reliable access to independent professionals, it’s an excellent choice for anyone on their financial journey. We confidently recommend it, awarding it 5 stars for convenience and effectiveness.
Capital at risk.
What Does This Page Cover?
What Is Unbiased?
| Key Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Number of Users | Over 10 million users since inception |
| Number of Advisers | 27,000+ independent advisers |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.0 out of 5 stars (based on 11,000+ reviews) |
| Platform Established | 2009 |
| Cost for Users | Free to use |
| Average Time to Match | Within 24-48 hours |
| Adviser Vetting | Fully regulated by the FCA |
| Partnerships | Collaborates with Samaritans for support |
Unbiased is a leading UK platform that connects individuals with financial advisers tailored to their specific needs. Established in 2009, Unbiased has built a reputation for being a reliable resource for finding expert financial advice.
The platform serves a wide range of users, from those looking for basic financial guidance to seasoned professionals needing specialised advice on complex financial matters.
A Brief Overview of Unbiased
Unbiased connects consumers with a wide network of over 27,000 financial advisers across the UK, addressing various needs such as investment advice, retirement planning, mortgage consultations, and business services. The platform features both independent and restricted advisers, offering a mix of whole-of-market options and specialized advice.
While independent advisers provide comprehensive market coverage, restricted advisers focus on specific products or providers. Unbiased ensures transparency by requiring restricted advisers to disclose their limitations and offering the flexibility for them to go beyond their usual recommendations when necessary, ensuring users receive the best possible advice tailored to their circumstances.
How Unbiased Works
Unbiased functions by simplifying the process of finding the right financial adviser. Users can access the platform via its website or app, where they are presented with two main options for finding advice: the “Get Matched Now” service and the “Adviser Directory Search.” Both options are designed to cater to different user preferences, whether they want the platform to make a recommendation or prefer to browse and select an adviser themselves.
Get Matched Now
The “Get Matched Now” service is a personalised feature where users answer a series of questions about their financial needs and goals. Based on this information, Unbiased’s algorithm matches them with an adviser who is best suited to their requirements. This process is quick and efficient, typically providing a match within minutes, followed by contact from the adviser within 24-48 hours.
Adviser Directory Search
For users who prefer to take a more hands-on approach, the “Adviser Directory Search” allows them to browse through a comprehensive list of advisers. Users can filter results based on various criteria such as location, expertise, and client reviews. Each adviser’s profile includes detailed information about their qualifications, experience, and the types of advice they offer, enabling users to make an informed choice.
What are the Pro's and Con's of Unbiased
Unbiased offers numerous advantages, but like any service, it also has its limitations. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you determine if it’s the right platform for your financial needs.
- Wide Network of Financial Advisers: Unbiased connects users with over 27,000 advisers, ensuring a broad range of expertise.
- Free to Use: The platform is completely free for users, making it accessible to anyone seeking financial advice.
- Comprehensive Matching Service: The “Get Matched Now” feature quickly pairs you with a suitable adviser based on your specific needs.
- Lack of Detailed Fee Information: While the platform is free, the exact costs of adviser services aren’t disclosed upfront, which can lead to uncertainty.
- Variable Adviser Quality: Although Unbiased vets its advisers, the quality of service may still vary depending on the individual adviser, making it important to research before committing.
Financial Advisers on Unbiased
The platform connects users with financial advisers, the vast majority of which are independent, ensuring that the advice given is tailored to the client’s specific needs without any bias towards certain products. This is a critical feature that differentiates Unbiased from other platforms where advisers may be tied to specific financial products or institutions.
How Unbiased Ensures Quality Advice
Unbiased ensures the quality of its advisers through a rigorous vetting process. All advisers listed on the platform are required to be fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring they meet high standards of professionalism and ethics. Additionally, Unbiased monitors client feedback and reviews to continuously assess the performance of its advisers. This commitment to quality ensures that users receive reliable and trustworthy advice, tailored to their specific financial needs.
What Does It Cost to Use Unbiased?
One of the significant advantages of using Unbiased is that the platform is free for users. This means that users can search for and connect with financial advisers without any upfront costs, making it accessible to a wide range of people seeking financial advice.
Free Services and Adviser Fees
Unbiased remains free for users because the platform charges advisers a fee for successful leads This business model allows users to explore and connect with financial advisers without paying any fees to Unbiased. However, it’s important to note that while the platform is free to use, financial advisers may charge fees for their services. These fees vary depending on the type of service provided, whether it’s a one-time consultation or ongoing financial management, and are usually discussed during the initial, often free, consultation.
Using the Cost of Advice Tool
To help users estimate the potential costs of financial advice, Unbiased offers a “Cost of Advice” tool. This tool allows users to input their financial needs and receive an estimated cost range for the advice they seek. This feature is particularly useful for those new to financial planning, providing a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of adviser fees.
Unbiased in Action: Our Experience
To better understand how Unbiased works, I used the platform myself, focusing on the “Get Matched Now” feature. The process was straightforward, and I was able to connect with a suitable adviser quickly, demonstrating the platform’s efficiency and user-friendliness.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough of the Process
Upon accessing Unbiased, I opted for the “Get Matched Now” feature, which involved answering a series of questions about my financial situation and the type of advice I was seeking. The questions were clear and designed to gather essential information to match me with the right adviser.
After completing the questionnaire, Unbiased quickly processed my responses and provided me with a match. The adviser I was paired with was experienced in the area I needed help with, and the entire process from start to finish took less than 10 minutes, which was highly convenient.
Response Time and Adviser Matching
One of the standout aspects of my experience was the response time. After being matched with an adviser, I received an email notification within minutes, informing me that the adviser would contact me within 48 hours. In reality, the adviser reached out much sooner, demonstrating the platform’s efficiency.
The adviser was professional, knowledgeable, and well-matched to my needs, which highlighted the effectiveness of Unbiased’s matching algorithm. This quick and accurate matching process makes Unbiased a valuable tool for those seeking prompt and relevant financial advice.
Financial Products and Services Available Through Unbiased
Unbiased offers a wide range of financial products and services to cater to various needs, whether you are planning your future, managing investments, or seeking advice for your business. The platform connects users with advisers who specialise in different financial areas, ensuring that you receive expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Financial Planning and Investments
Unbiased provides access to advisers who can help with comprehensive financial planning and investment strategies. Whether you are looking to build a diversified investment portfolio, manage wealth, or plan for significant life events, the platform’s advisers offer tailored advice to help you achieve your financial goals.
Mortgages and Insurance
For those navigating the complexities of home ownership or insurance coverage, Unbiased connects users with advisers who specialise in mortgages and insurance. These experts can help you find the best mortgage rates, understand the terms of various insurance policies, and ensure that your assets and loved ones are adequately protected.
Pensions, Retirement, and Long-Term Care
Planning for retirement and long-term care is crucial, and Unbiased offers access to advisers who are experts in these fields. Whether you need advice on pension options, retirement savings plans, or long-term care insurance, the platform helps you secure a financially stable future.
Business Services
Unbiased also supports small business owners by connecting them with advisers experienced in business finance. These advisers can assist with everything from bookkeeping and tax planning to securing business loans and optimising cash flow, helping you manage and grow your business effectively.
Is Unbiased Trustworthy?
Unbiased has established a strong reputation over 30 years by ensuring all listed advisers are fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Its thorough vetting process, consistent performance monitoring through user feedback, and positive Trustpilot reviews (4.0 from 11,000+ users) affirm its reliability. Partnerships with reputable organizations, like Samaritans, further emphasize its commitment to quality and social responsibility, making Unbiased a dependable platform for financial advice.
Key Benefits of Using Unbiased
The key benefits of Unbiased include its free-to-use model, which removes barriers for users seeking financial advice, and its extensive network of over 27,000 advisers, ensuring that users can find the right expert for their specific needs. The platform’s easy-to-navigate interface and efficient matching service further enhance its appeal, making it a valuable tool for both novices and experienced individuals alike.
Unbiased’s History and Reputation
Founded over 15 years ago, Unbiased has grown into one of the UK’s most reputable platforms for finding independent financial advice. The platform’s longevity and widespread use are testaments to its credibility and the value it provides to its users.
Unbiased vs. Other Financial Adviser Platforms
Unbiased stands out among financial advice platforms by offering a comprehensive, user-centered approach. Unlike competitors such as VouchedFor and AdviserBook, which may include tied advisers or charge users a fee, Unbiased prioritizes independence and accessibility.
How Unbiased Compares to Competitors
Compared to platforms like VouchedFor, which lists both independent and restricted advisers, and AdviserBook, which focuses on a detailed adviser directory, Unbiased offers a larger network of independent professionals. This increases the likelihood of users receiving tailored, unbiased advice rather than product-focused recommendations. Additionally, Unbiased’s free-to-use model and quick matching service make it particularly accessible, especially for those new to financial planning, whereas some competitors may have more complex fee structures or limitations on the range of advisers available.
What is our Final Verdict on Unbiased
After thoroughly reviewing Unbiased, it’s clear why the platform has been a trusted resource for millions of users over the past 15 years. It stands out for its comprehensive, user-friendly approach to connecting individuals with qualified financial advisers, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking financial guidance.
Who Should Use Unbiased?
Unbiased is ideal for individuals who value independence in financial advice, whether they are new to financial planning or experienced investors looking for expert guidance. It’s also a great option for those who want to explore their options without upfront costs.
Key Takeaways
- Free-to-Use Platform: Unbiased is completely free for users, making it accessible to a wide range of people seeking financial advice.
- Large Network of Advisers: Unbiased connects users with over 27,000 advisers, most of whom are independent, offering diverse expertise.
- Quick Matching Service: The platform’s “Get Matched Now” feature efficiently pairs users with suitable advisers, typically within minutes.
- Independent and Restricted Advisers: Unbiased offers both independent and restricted advisers, ensuring tailored financial advice while maintaining transparency about restrictions.
- Regulated by the FCA: All advisers on Unbiased are fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring they meet high standards of professionalism and ethics.
- Positive User Reviews: The platform boasts a 4.0 rating on Trustpilot from over 11,000 reviews, reflecting high user satisfaction.
- Diverse Financial Services: Unbiased provides access to specialists in financial planning, mortgages, pensions, business services, and more.
- Trusted Reputation: With over 30 years in operation, Unbiased has established itself as a reliable resource for financial advice in the UK.
- Flexible Search Options: Users can either be matched with an adviser or search the directory to find the right expert based on their preferences.
- Commitment to Quality: Unbiased rigorously vets its advisers and continuously monitors performance through user feedback, ensuring trustworthy guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Unbiased
How Does Unbiased Make Money?
Unbiased generates revenue by charging financial advisers a subscription fee, and a fee for a matched lead. This allows the platform to remain free for users.
Can I Trust the Advisers on Unbiased?
Yes, all advisers on Unbiased are vetted and must be fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures that they meet high standards of professionalism and ethics.
What Is the Cost of Advice on Unbiased?
While using Unbiased is free, the cost of advice from financial advisers varies. Fees depend on the type of service provided and are typically discussed during an initial consultation, which is often free.
How to Begin Your Search
To begin your search, visit the Unbiased website or app, and use the “Get Matched Now” feature or browse the Adviser Directory to find an adviser suited to your needs.
References
Unbiased.co.uk
“Find Independent Financial Advisers & Financial Advice – Unbiased.”
URL: https://www.unbiased.co.ukTrustpilot
“Unbiased Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of Unbiased.co.uk.”
URL: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/unbiased.co.ukVouchedFor
“Find a Financial Adviser, Mortgage Adviser or Solicitor.”
URL: https://www.vouchedfor.co.ukAdviserBook
“AdviserBook – The Free Financial Adviser Directory.”
URL: https://www.adviserbook.co.ukFinancial Conduct Authority (FCA)
“Find a Financial Adviser – Financial Conduct Authority.”
URL: https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/financial-advisers
Related Blogs
Need financial advice you can trust? Find independent advisers on Unbiased.