Here are some good questions for your first meeting with a school fees adviser:

1. Are you an IFA? - Avoid using a go-between, there are many of these on the Web.

2. What qualifications do you have? - The benchmark qualification is the Financial Planning Certificate (FPC) ask to see it.

3. How do you charge? - Independent Financial Advisers can be paid by fees which you pay.

4. Will you let me contact the company that is providing the product? - An adviser should feel totally confident and be willing for you to talk directly with the product provider involved.

5. How long have you been in business? - Several years experience is good.

6. Are you a specialist? - IFAs are usually all-rounders.

7. Who regulates you? - IFA must be regulated by a recognised authority. The Financial Services Authority is the principal regulator for financial services.

8. What independent school organisations are you affiliated with?

-----------------------

Talk to an adviser