What is targeted support?
Targeted support is a form of help, in force since 6 April 2026, in which an authorised firm such as a pension provider can suggest options designed for groups of people with similar circumstances, without giving personal advice.
It sits between free guidance and full advice: it is not a personal recommendation based on everything about you, so it is not the same as advice from a financial adviser.
Where it came from
Targeted support came from the FCA's Advice Guidance Boundary Review. The final rules were confirmed in February 2026 and took effect on 6 April 2026. Firms must be authorised by the FCA to provide it.
How it differs from guidance and advice
| Guidance | Targeted support | Advice | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tells you what to do? | No: explains options | Suggests an option for people like you | Yes: a personal recommendation |
| Based on | General information | A group with shared characteristics | Your full circumstances |
| Typical cost to you | Free | Depends on the firm | An adviser charge |
Using it well
Targeted support can be a useful prompt, for example about how much you are contributing or how you plan to take a pension. Because it is not based on your whole situation, it may not fit you. If the decision is large or hard to reverse, such as transferring a defined benefit pension, advice from an authorised adviser is the protection the rules provide.
Related definitions
- Adviser charging (RDR)
- Minimum investment and minimum fee
- Fixed-fee advice
- Adviser charge
- Do I need a financial adviser?
Sources
General information only, not regulated financial advice or a personal recommendation. FinancialAdvisor.co.uk is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Figures are labelled with their source and date; they describe the market, not any firm, and are not quotes. Spotted an error? Report it and we will correct it.