26 October 2026 · General process guide
Make an index first
Start with a list of the documents you already have. Group them in a way that is easy for you to follow, for example household information, business papers and questions for your advisers.
Separate questions from documents
Keep a short page of things you want to ask. You can discuss the questions before deciding which documents a professional needs to see.
Check how to share information
Before sending anything, ask the practice which documents are necessary and how it wants to receive them. Do not send passwords, bank details or account numbers through a general website enquiry.
Keep a record of next steps
After the conversation, note what you have agreed to find and what the adviser will explain. This guide is about preparing for a conversation; it does not recommend a financial product or course of action.