ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Independent financial adviser

An independent financial adviser is someone who helps you with your money. They can help you figure out how to save and invest your money so it grows. They can also help you plan how to use your money for things you need or want, like buying a house or going to college.

They are called "independent" because they do not work for a specific company that sells financial products like mutual funds, stocks, or insurance. Instead, they work for you and are supposed to make recommendations based only on what is best for your situation. This means they can look at a variety of different financial options and choose the ones that are right for you.

One way they do this is by talking to you about your financial goals and making a plan to reach them. They might ask about how much money you make, how much you spend, and what you already own. They might also ask about your age, your family, and your job. This helps them understand your situation and come up with a plan that will work best for you.

They can also help you with things like taxes, insurance, and retirement planning. They can explain complex financial concepts in a way you can understand and answer any questions you have. They might even give you homework, like tracking your spending or saving more money each month.

Overall, an independent financial adviser is like a teacher for your money. They help you understand it and make the best decisions so you can achieve your financial goals.