Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions2023-07-25T10:38:30+01:00
What continuous professional development (CPD) do you undertake?2023-03-08T10:20:39+00:00

Along with the annual CPD required to maintain our existing qualifications, we are also advocates of continued education. Our team regularly pursue further education across various financial and business subjects.

What other expertise do you have?2023-03-08T10:20:54+00:00

We have several decades of combined financial planning experience across our team. Other team members come from a broad range of backgrounds, including social work and other business industries, which helps us understand our clients’ needs and how best to put solid financial plans in place to meet your goals.

How do you remain progressive?2023-03-08T10:21:11+00:00

We are a forward-thinking company, always challenging the status quo and striving to improve. Our Advisory Standards Group consistently and systematically reviews our investment options, processes, and advice. We are committed to staying ahead in an ever changing legal, tax and regulatory environment.

Is my pension going to be adequate for my retirement?2023-04-28T11:53:58+01:00

In our experience usually no. The main reasons being that people don’t save enough and they don’t start early enough.

Should I invest in a pension or overpay my mortgage?2023-04-28T11:54:18+01:00

This depends on a variety of factors such as: interest rates, inflation, your age, amount of debt you have and multiple other factors. The answer requires an analysis specific to your circumstances.

I’m trying to understand my fees but it seems complex?2023-04-28T11:54:37+01:00

Fees matter a lot as they reduce your returns. We believe in complete transparency and low-cost investing. Costs are often hidden from investors in Ireland.

I am likely to go over the €2 million threshold with my pension – any advice?2023-04-28T11:54:53+01:00

Yes, we have bespoke strategies in place for our clients to minimise the impact of this.

I don’t have a pension from my employer.2023-04-28T11:55:11+01:00

You should start your own pension. Even without employer contributions, the tax saving on employee contributions makes a pension worthwhile.

How should I save for my child’s future?2023-04-28T11:55:34+01:00

In our experience, families that work together across the generations (grandparents, parents, children) are more successful in achieving these goals.

Saving up to buy a house is difficult, are there any shortcuts?2023-04-28T11:55:53+01:00

If you are investing money over the short term to try and make profit, you are not investing you are gambling. In our experience, families that work together are more successful at solving these problems. Shortcuts are hard to achieve on your own.

How much life assurance should I have?2023-04-28T11:56:10+01:00

The amount will vary depending on the number of dependents you have and their individual requirements.

I have just had a child, what should my financial priorities be?2023-04-28T11:56:26+01:00

Make a will and appoint guardians. Make sure you have adequate life assurance and income protection. Take your parental leave to try and enjoy those years.

Am I missing out on any tax savings?2023-04-28T11:56:42+01:00

You most likely are yes, almost everyone can save some tax through good financial planning.

What’s the best way to reduce my tax bill?2023-04-28T11:56:57+01:00

Pensions are a great tax shelter and we often consider them even for people who don’t have any earnings such as Homemakers.

Are there ways to reduce tax on my investments?2023-04-28T11:57:14+01:00

Yes, tax in Ireland is both high and complex and it should be a focal point for all investors. We advise on alternative ways to invest that avoid Exit Tax and tailor our advice suit individual circumstances.

Are you tax advisors?2023-04-28T11:57:31+01:00

We always create financial plans with tax efficiencies in mind but we are not tax advisors. We work closely with accountants and tax consultants should you require specific tax advice.

Is DIY investing through online platforms the most effective way to invest?2023-04-28T11:58:03+01:00

Not in Ireland as there are significant hurdles when pursuing this investment route.

Are funds or ETFs better to buy?2023-04-28T11:58:20+01:00

This depends on your tax position. We tailor investment advice to individual client needs.

Are there ways to reduce tax on my investments?2023-04-28T11:58:40+01:00

Yes, there are alternative ways to invest that avoid exit tax. Tax in Ireland is both high and complex and should be a prime focus for all investors.

Should I choose my own investments?2023-04-28T11:58:55+01:00

No, investing is complex and requires professional guidance and monitoring.

Are there ways to reduce my inheritance tax bill?2023-04-28T11:59:13+01:00

Yes, there are several legitimate ways to do this.

What is the best way to pass assets to my children?2023-04-28T11:59:30+01:00

This varies depending on the asset – businesses, cash, houses, investments are all potentially treated differently.

I am planning to move to Ireland – should I contact you before or after I move?2023-04-28T11:59:49+01:00

Planning your personal finances for a move to Ireland should start as soon as possible, ideally before you move.

I have moved to Ireland and would like to know my options.2023-04-28T12:00:06+01:00

This is a bespoke service we offer to clients as there are a variety of considerations depending on your nationality. Please get in touch to arrange a planning meeting.

Is my tax status different because my father wasn’t born in Ireland? Are there tax advantages to being a non-domiciled individual?2023-04-28T12:00:27+01:00

It’s very likely that you have a different tax status if your father was born outside of Ireland. There are significant advantages to establishing your tax status and pursuing a financial plan based on this.

Does sustainable investing cost more?2023-04-28T12:00:46+01:00

At the fund level usually yes, but there are many advantages to also be considered.

Does sustainable investing reduce my returns?2023-04-28T12:01:07+01:00

There is no evidence for this. Socially responsible investing appears to provide at least as good a return as most other kinds of investing over the long term.

Can I see which companies I’m investing in?2023-04-28T12:01:24+01:00

Yes, we build socially responsible portfolios that are fully transparent to reassure you that your values are being respected.

Can I pick and choose my own sustainable investments?2023-04-28T12:01:40+01:00

Not usually but there are different options that can be explored to identify the best fit with your principles and values.

What is the meaning of philanthropy?2023-07-05T13:05:12+01:00

Philanthropy is the selfless act of contributing to the well-being and improvement of society, typically through generous donations of time, resources, or funds to causes aimed at creating a positive impact.

What’s the difference between philanthropy and charity?2023-07-05T13:05:44+01:00

While philanthropy and charity are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between the two concepts.

Charity tends to be an immediate, emotional, and often one-time response to a pressing need or crisis, such as providing food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless, or disaster relief. The primary aim of charity is to alleviate the immediate suffering caused by a situation.

Philanthropy, on the other hand, takes a more strategic and long-term approach, aiming not only to alleviate immediate needs but also to tackle the root causes of societal problems and create systemic change. This could involve funding research, supporting policy reforms, or launching initiatives that address issues such as poverty, education, healthcare disparities, or environmental challenges.

Should I give money away to charity?2023-04-28T12:02:24+01:00

Once your dependents are taken care of and you have sufficient wealth for your own means, your generosity will be a great use of some surplus money.

What qualifications do your advisors hold?2023-03-08T10:09:13+00:00

Everlake advisors hold the world renowned Certified Financial Planner® professional designation. Our office staff hold the Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA) designation or are studying towards it.

Go to Top