Guide · Complaints

How to complain about a financial adviser

Start with the firm. Keep a written record of what happened, what you want resolved and the evidence that supports your complaint.

Updated 28 August 2026 · UK

Complain to the firm first

The FCA says you should first contact the financial business you want to complain about. Explain what went wrong and what you would like the firm to do to put it right.

How long does the firm have to respond?

For many financial complaints, firms generally have up to eight weeks to provide a final response. Different time limits can apply to some complaint types, so check the current FCA and Ombudsman guidance for your circumstances.

When can the Financial Ombudsman Service help?

If you are unhappy with the final response, or the firm has not responded within the applicable timeframe, you may be able to take the complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service. The FCA says consumers generally need to contact the Ombudsman within six months of the firm's final response.

What should you keep?

Advice documentsSuitability reports and recommendations relevant to the complaint.
Statements and valuationsEvidence of the position before and after the disputed advice where relevant.
Emails and lettersKeep a clear record of communications and dates.
Complaint responseRetain the firm's acknowledgement and final response.
Sources & further reading

FCA - How to complain ↗