Success Stories

Case Studies

Case Study 1 – The Right information can be priceless

Case Study 2 – Knowing your number is a powerful thing

Case Study 3 – You’re already there – New Problems?

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is holistic financial planning?

It is a complete review of your financial life — pensions, investments, protection, tax, income and goals — looked at together rather than in isolation. The aim is a clear written plan that tells you where you stand, where you need to get to, and what actions will get you there.

Who do you typically work with?

Our clients are typically business owners, professionals in the 10–15 years before retirement, and families with meaningful financial complexity. We also provide specialist planning for individuals and families navigating the ADM / Ward of Court transition. We work with a small number of clients and for this reason we operate a minimum asset threshold in investable assets.

‍

How much does your service cost?

We are clear on charging. For our holistic planning service, we charge an initial Planning set up fee. This can range from €1,500 to €2,500 depending on the complexity of the case (this fee is either partially or fully waived where initial commissions are received from insurers on set up of financial products, if these are required). Our ongoing planning fee is 0.5% of assets under advice per year. This covers your financial planning reviews, updates, meetings, and all advice in between. Where financial products are arranged, we may also receive commission from a product provider — this will always be disclosed to you clearly in advance and is set out in the ‘Statement of Suitability’ which we provide to you.

I already have a pension and some savings. Do I actually need a financial plan?

Having products is not the same as having a plan. Most people we speak to have accumulated pensions, cover and savings over time — but have never had anyone look at how they all fit together. A plan answers the question no product can: is what you have enough, and is it working as hard as it should be?

Are you regulated?

Yes. Northstar Financial Planning Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland (no. C190060). We are bound by the Consumer Protection Code and act in accordance with our regulatory obligations at all times. Full details are available in our Terms of Business.

What happens at the first meeting?

The first conversation is introductory and obligation-free. We want to understand your situation and what you are looking to achieve. You will get a clear sense of how we work and whether we are a good fit. There is no sales pitch and no commitment required at that stage.

How often will we meet after that?

We meet with clients at least once a year for a full review, and more frequently when circumstances require it — a business event, a change in income, a family milestone. In between, we are available by phone and email as needed. Our clients are not passed to an admin team.

Can you help with ADM and Ward of Court matters?

Yes — this is a specialist area of our practice. We work with families and solicitors on the financial planning aspects of transitions from the Ward of Court system to the new Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act framework. We have a clear compliance process for these cases and understand the specific requirements involved.

Do I need to be based in Donegal to work with you?

Not at all. While we are rooted in Inishowen, Northstar operates as an online financial planning practice and works with clients right across Ireland. The majority of our client meetings take place by video call, which works excellently for ongoing planning relationships. If you would prefer to meet in person, we can arrange that too.

How do I get started?

Use the contact form on our Get in Touch page, or call us directly on 074 93 26125. We ask a few short questions upfront to make sure we are the right fit before we speak — it saves time on both sides.