Paul Smith

Abacus Associates Financial Services Ltd

Reviewed for

Insurance and Protection ( 4 )

Mortgages ( 2 )

Pensions ( 25 )

Equity Release ( 1 )

Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 6 )

Auto Enrolment ( 1 )

Investments and Savings ( 11 )

Pension Transfers - Non Specialist ( 4 )

Reviewers' assets

£500k+ ( 3 )

£200k - £500k ( 3 )

£100k - £200k ( 1 )

Up to £50k ( 6 )

£50k - 100k ( 4 )

Client reviews

Review from verified client

March, 2020

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

New mortgage - looking for advice on life cover and critical illness cover.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul gave me excellent advice regarding life cover. He was very genuine. With clear explanations, he guided me to the conclusion that I was already adequately covered. And he didn't try to sell me anything I didn't need. Excellent.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

Review from verified client

February, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Looking for a better return on pension investments and to make a small draw down.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Advice regarding pension providers and levels of risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to say regarding returns, but signs are encouraging.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Looking for a better return on my pension investments.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul reviewed & provided advice on existing pension arrangements, he listened to my requirements and advised on options available for future financial planning in preparation for retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to say.

What could they have done better?

Paul covered everything I required and was available to call when I needed further assistance.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Herefordshire

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

We were looking for a financial health check, and advice on how we could release more money for every day expenses.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul talked us through our current outgoings and planned payments. He advised us on ways in which we could release some money, and help us pay off outstanding credit.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes- Paul was very clear and matter of fact. He is very approachable and professional in his approach. We are going to follow the recommendations offered to us.

What could they have done better?

Nothing- delighted!

Review from verified client

October, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

I have known Paul for many years as my adviser, Paul has managed my investments for over 10 years.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul has previously invested money for me. I have always found Paul to be honest, polite. Nice guy to deal with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have seen good returns over the years and can always rely on Paul's service and prompt reviews. Can't ask for more really.

What could they have done better?

Not that i can think of.

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Buckinghamshire

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

Due to redundancy I took early retirement and as not of state pension age needed to access my personal pension pots.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul gave very clear advice, has organised for my pension pots to be combined and get the most tax efficient income going forward.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am not at that stage yet but am confident that the outcome will be to my satisfaction.

What could they have done better?

I am more than happy with Paul's advice and commitment to dealing with my pension. The whole process has gone very smoothly.

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Worcestershire

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

Pension transfer.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul handled my pension extremely well especially to a challenging timetable. His skills and contacts in negotiating has way around the task given very apparent.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are in the first year of using Paul and I feel confident that the relationship will develop and I look forward to continue working with him.

What could they have done better?

As always, have face to face dialogue and plain and direct talking from Paul appreciated.

Paul's reply

Thank you David, was a pleasure being able to help you out. Always like to get my teeth into a challenge! Looking forward to continue working with you. See you at our next review. - Paul

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Buckinghamshire

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

Retired with numerous funds that needed collecting into one pot.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul arranged all funds to be put with one company and dealt with all the necessary paperwork.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we I now have a planned income to match my outgoings.

What could they have done better?

No comment at present.

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Took voluntary redundancy, therefore wanted to transfer my Occupational Pension into a Self Invested Pension.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul discussed at length my needs and long term plan, understanding my requirements and advising me on the best investment to suit my needs. He explained everything in easy terms putting my mind at ease.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The whole process was straightforward, and the outcome was exactly what I required.

What could they have done better?

Nothing as in my experience he completely understood my requirements, resulting in the Pension being just what I wanted.

Paul's reply

Thank you Paul, really glad I could help you out. Look forward to seeing you at our first review. -Paul

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Kent

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

Redundancy.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Clear and constructive advise when I most needed it.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not as yet, but too early in the process to know.

What could they have done better?

when you are unsure of your future a little more communication would be benifitial

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Kent

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

Redundancy.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Clear and constructive advise.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

too early to say.

What could they have done better?

slightly more contact..

Paul's reply

Thanks for your feedback Neil and thanks again for your trust in being able to help you out. I've taken on board your feedback around slightly more contact and I strive to keep clients updated with the progress of cases throughout, although there can be delays when having to wait for providers and other third parties. Thanks again for your business and look forward to continue to work with you. All the best - Paul

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Needed to move my money from a works pension to a private pension.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Advised me how it can be done and the best place to reinvest it.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The money has been moved and re-investedi to my satisfaction.

What could they have done better?

I don’t know, it was all done in a timely fashion. The only waiting was the funds being transferred but Paul kept me updated all the time.

Paul's reply

Thanks Greg, pleasure being able to help you out, thanks again for your business - Paul

Review from verified client

August, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Herefordshire

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

Moving pension form company pension to another provider.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Evaluated options as requested by law to allow me to move my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes.

What could they have done better?

All worked very well from the financial advisor side even though my original provider caused problems

Paul's reply

Thank you Derek, pleasure to be able to help you out. All the best - Paul

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2018

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Paul

Paul was very approachable and made himself clearly understood. His knowledge will be very useful for future financial planning.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2018

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Paul

Very helpful and clear with information required

Review from verified client

January, 2018

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

I wanted to make good use of my pension pot.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul has found a scheme for me to use.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am happy with the outcome.

Review from verified client

December, 2017

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Nearing Retirement.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Gave sound advice which enabled a decision to be made on my PPF arrangement. Looking forward to meeting again in the near future for decision making regarding several private pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far yes.

What could they have done better?

So far can't fault anything in the process undergone.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2017

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Paul

Very knowledgeable. Nice guy to deal with.

Paul's reply

Thanks Derek. Look forward to working with you, we are already on the case! - Regards Paul

Review from verified client

December, 2017

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Drawdown pension advice.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Transfer of pension from old scheme to drawdown scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Outcome accomplished exactly as request, promptly, efficiently and pleasantly.

What could they have done better?

He could charge me nothing. No, seriously this was good advice with no issues atall that I am aware of.

Review from verified client

December, 2017

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Closure of old scheme.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul came to my house after initial contact he went through the available schemes in depth and was able to help me transfer my pension promptly despite very difficult circumstances related to my old provider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

N/a.

What could they have done better?

N/a

Review from verified client

May, 2017

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Financial clarity around loan or equity release and the repercussions of doing so.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul did exactly what he said he would, arrived on time, and with a real desire to find out how he could help. His honest and genuine approach brought a breath of fresh air to a subject I often try to avoid. Paul is a good and active listener, and in doing so is able to quickly get a view on the 'big picture' of your finances, which is vital for any adviser. He is well-connected and is generous in sharing these other potentially helpful business contacts with you”.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are at initial stages.

Review from verified client

October, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in

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

Retirement.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Advised us on are options, and explained in away we understood.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes, just waiting for moneys to come through.

Review from verified client

October, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in

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

We were looking for a financial adviser for clients to use.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Helped several clients with various needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, clients are extremely happy with all the help Paul has given them.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Wanted to improve growth on savings, as interest rates were poor.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Suggested alternative schemes that we thought sounded a better solution to our existing scheme.Because.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Because of the current market place investment did not achieve as well as first thought.

What could they have done better?

Don't think that he could have done much to improve situation at that difficult time in the marketplace, did however appreciate his continued updates.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

We had a variety of pension and investment requirements and needed someone nearby to develop a long term relationship with as we approached retirement.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul set up a new personal pension, ISAs and advised us on existing pension arrangements. He also gave us good advice on managing tax benefits.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We can now relax and know that when we stop working there will be a reasonable income and Paul will be able to help us draw on our pension savings and investments.

What could they have done better?

Within the constraints of a highly regulated business and the conditions imposed by the companies, Paul could do nothing more to help.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Due to health problems I had to have advice before I could transfer from a final salary scheme to draw down.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

I did not need advice due to my background but had to pay for it to meet government regulations. Paul did find the most suitable drawdown for me, but I could have done this myself.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Herefordshire

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

My husband had a number of pensions and we wanted advice on how to link them in all together.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul looked at the best options available for us and advised us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, completely Paul advised us and linked the pensions, and gave us the advice we were looking for.

What could they have done better?

I don't think there is anything else he could have done. He gave us the advice we wanted.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Value

Service

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Reached retirement age and needed advice regarding my private pension.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul listened and understood my needs and guided me through the different products available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am very happy with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

Paul is an approachable and friendly person and puts you at ease straight away, I don't think that there's anything he could have done better.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Service

Advice

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

I was thinking about Retirement planning and Paul was recommended to me by a family member.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul visited me, took all details and discussed various options. He answered many of my questions immediately and took the time to establish what I wanted and what were my priorities. For those few questions he couldn't immediately answered, he found out and came back to me promptly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my case was complex, so Paul enlisted the help of a specialist in Pensions, so that I had all options available to me. Ultimately, the decision on which course to take was mine, but I had a lot of information available on which to base my decision. I wasn't pushed or pulled in any direction, but I was given answers to my questions. As a result, I'm now in a good position to retire in the next 12-18 months. Since my case was so complex, Paul recommended that I employed an accountant to do my Tax return and this resulted in considerable Tax rebates coming back to me. I was happy with this advice and grateful for the suggestion.

What could they have done better?

Well, that's difficult to answer! I'm not an FA myself, so I can't see if any of the items that came up could have been better done. From my perspective, he's done a good job and I have recommended him to others.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Coming up to retirement and having received an inheritance I thought I needed advise.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul spent a lot of time listening to what I wanted to do and then explaining my options. He went away and worked out some information about my pensions for me and gave advise on investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Although I haven't gone ahead with some of the investments, I found him sensible and informed. He didn't try to push me into anything that I didn't want to do. I was very happy with the service.

What could they have done better?

Not in this case. I was extremely satisfied with the service I received and will hope to work with Paul again in the future.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

as i was about to retire thought i should get some advice.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

put me on the right track to manage my future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

i think so.

What could they have done better?

not sure what to say on this one as we are open to their advice

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

I as looking to get public liability insurance.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul help get the right insurance that need throw his contacts.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes the outcome was what i was looking for and i got the insurance.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

I was coming up to 65 and my private pension was due to mature. As it was only a relatively small pot, wanted to take advantage of the new government changes that were coming up in the April, so needed help to understand it all and how to go about it.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul was very thorough and explained all options very clearly. I could not take the drawdown option with my current pension company, so Paul set me up with a company who did. All the time keeping me informed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I quite honestly cannot think of anything.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

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

Needed advice regarding pensions.

How has Paul Smith helped you?

He was able to supply us with fantastic easy to understand advice at a time and location suitable for everyone.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. The outcome was exactly what Paul had said and we will definitely be getting more advice off him.

Review from verified client

July, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Newport

How has Paul Smith helped you?

Paul is a friendly, approachable person. He explains things clearly and doesn't mind repeating things if you don't quite understand things. Everything he promises to do he does. He contacts us regularly and doesn't mind us contacting him and always gets back to us - he doesn't make us feel as if we are wasting his time.

What could they have done better?

We are very happy with the way Paul deals with us.

Review from verified client

July, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Monmouthshire

How has Paul Smith helped you?

I contacted Paul in lieu of impending retirement, he can already highly recommended. I have very limited understanding of how all the financial 'stuff' works and found Paul to be very professional and helpful despite my lack of awareness. He listened to all the issues that I had, then explained and clarified examples of how they could be dealt with and then put solutions in place to deal with them. His expertise and advice has proved very effective to date.

What could they have done better?

Perhaps some initial idea of the level of people's financial knowledge how prior to a first meeting as it is daunting to admit you have pratically none.

Review from verified client

July, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Gloucestershire

How has Paul Smith helped you?

First impressions count. Paul is an articulate, knowledgeable and personable individual who gives excellent financial advice. I was impressed as he took the time to understand the complexities of my situation, reflecting on the discussion and then sending through relevant material to aid my understanding and to inform future planning. Thank you Paul.

What could they have done better?

Paul thank you - what I found helpful was the email you sent through in response to my questions. As a reflective practitioner it is always helpful for me to see a summary of key points discussed.