Business Details
12 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Independent Financial Advisers in Reading
Established in 2014, Box Financial Planning has been delivering independent financial advice across the Thames Valley and beyond for nearly a decade. Our founder, Paul Howard, brings over 30 years of industry experience from prominent advisory and provider firms, ensuring our clients benefit from deep expertise and ethical compliance practices. Specialising in protection, investments, pensions, mortgages, and equity release, we prioritise tailored, transparent advice aligned with individual client needs.As an FCA-authorised firm (number 607322), we maintain rigorous regulatory standards while offering a free initial consultation to ensure accessibility. Our commitment to client-centric service is reflected in our flexible meeting arrangements, including evenings and Saturdays, and our dedication to resolving any service concerns promptly through the Financial Ombudsman Service when needed.
Services
Insurance
Mortgages
Investments
Pensions
Equity Release
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of financial services experience with FCA-authorised expertise
- Our advice covers the entire market for investments and pensions without restrictions
- We provide transparent fee structures with a free initial consultation
- Flexible meeting arrangements including evenings and Saturdays
- Ethical compliance-focused approach with access to Financial Ombudsman Service
Associations and certifications
- Financial Conduct Authority
Services
Financial Planning
We create comprehensive financial plans addressing protection, investments, pensions, and retirement strategies. Our FCA-authorised advisers assess individual circumstances to develop tailored solutions that balance growth potential with risk management. With expertise spanning multiple financial products, we help clients achieve both short-term objectives and long-term security through structured, compliant advice.
Mortgage Advice
Our mortgage advisory service covers traditional mortgages, buy-to-let options, and equity release solutions. While operating within market restrictions, we access extensive lender networks to find suitable property financing arrangements. We explain complex mortgage terms clearly, highlighting repossession risks while helping clients secure appropriate home finance solutions aligned with their financial circumstances.
Investment Management
We guide clients through diverse investment vehicles including ISAs, pensions, and structured products. Our advice considers market volatility while explaining tax-efficient growth opportunities. With access to the full investment market, we help build diversified portfolios that match clients' risk profiles and financial goals, ensuring they understand potential capital fluctuations.
Protection Planning
Our protection services cover life assurance, critical illness cover, and permanent health insurance. We help clients understand different policy structures and costs while addressing common misconceptions about affordability. The service ensures clients have appropriate coverage to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances while maintaining ethical compliance standards.
Pension Advice
We provide comprehensive pension guidance covering SIPPs, annuities, and income drawdown options. Our advisers help clients navigate complex retirement savings regulations while planning sustainable income streams. With increasing life expectancy, we focus on creating robust retirement strategies that adapt to changing financial needs throughout different life stages.
People
Paul Howard
Founder & Financial Adviser
With over 30 years' experience in financial services, Paul established Box Financial Planning in 2014 after working with major advisory firms. His expertise spans compliance, investment strategies, and ethical financial planning. He specialises in creating accessible, cost-effective solutions for clients across the Thames Valley.
Questions
What financial services do you specialise in?
We specialise in protection, investments, pensions, mortgages, and equity release solutions. Our FCA-authorised advisers provide comprehensive guidance across these core financial planning areas.
Are your financial advice services regulated?
Yes, we are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (number 607322), ensuring all advice meets strict compliance standards and client protections.
Do you charge for initial consultations?
No, our first meeting is completely free with no obligation, allowing you to understand our approach before committing to any chargeable work.
Can I get evening or weekend appointments?
Yes, while our standard hours are 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, we can arrange evening or Saturday meetings to accommodate client schedules.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Reading, we serve clients throughout the Thames Valley including Henley and Wallingford, with advisory services available further afield when required.
How do you handle complaints?
We aim to resolve all concerns promptly. If unresolved, you can escalate complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service for independent arbitration as detailed in our complaints procedure.
