How to find a good tax advisor?

[kg21]

Hope I'm allowed to ask this question on this forum!

I'm looking for a personal tax advisor for IHT planning, on UK and international assets.

However, I'm not sure how best to select an advisor. A few questions come to mind:

1. I presume having a CTA, ATT or STEP qualification is a prerequisite, but which one is preferred or does it not matter?
2. What other factors should I take into consideration when selecting a tax advisor?
3. What's the typical hourly rate to expect?

Also, any recommendations would be greatly received. Many thanks!

[jerome.lane]

CTA, ATT and STEP qualifications are good to haves' although there's lots to be said for qualified by experience. Many financial advisers are excellent with estate planning. I always think the most important thing is to find an adviser who understands your goals and tailors their advice to suit that. At Stewart & Co, that's always what we aim to do. Hourly rates vary from £100 to £300 and upwards (plus VAT on top) although you should be able to get a free initial consultation and then a fixed fee quote for advice in most cases. It's very much a case of beauty parading and then choosing who you would like to work with. Good luck!