WOMAN: I've just inherited some money from an aunt of mine. She was a dear old thing but I had no idea she was leaving me anything. It isn't such a large sum, but I'd like to make the best of it, especially as it's not something that I should need to use for a number of years. What would you suggest, Mike? MAN: Hmm ... What about a financial advisor? WOMAN: What's that? MAN: Well, what it says, really – someone who will advise you on your finances. WOMAN: I see. Tell me more. MAN: You can consult one of two kinds of financial advisor – a 'tied' one, who may not give you particularly objective advice, as he or she recommends only the services of the bank or building society which he or she works for – or an independent financial advisor, or IFA. WOMAN: What will an IFA do? MAN: Well, technically, an IFA should choose the best deal for you from the whole range of products on the market, but even he, or she, may only choose from a limited selection of favourites, so you have to be careful, even then. WOMAN: Hmm ... yes... are these people really qualified to give advice? MAN: Oh, yes. They must have passed Financial Planning Certificates 1, 2 and 3, or they aren't qualified. I'll give you the number to ring for a list of qualified financial advisors if you like.