The guide provides impartial information on how to choose the right financial advice on mortgages, general or protection insurance and investments and also gives useful tips on what consumers can expect from a visit to an adviser.
Anna Bradley, consumer sector leader at the FSA, said: "Consumers say they need and want help with their finances, but they often also say that they turn to friends and family as the most trusted source of advice on financial matters. We hope this guide will be a valuable tool in helping consumers become more confident about seeking and using financial advice."
The guide is part of a wide range of independent, unbiased tools and information available on the FSA Consumer website www.fsa.gov.uk/consumer, which also includes:
*A new "protect yourself" section with useful top tips, do's and don'ts and general information on how consumers can protect themselves when seeking or buying financial advice or services
*Comparative tables to help consumers shop around
*Firm check service to help consumers check if a firm is authorised by the FSA
The guide, and others are also available by calling the Consumer Helpline on 0845 606 1234 or by visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/consumer
