How much does Business Financial Planning cost?

What is Business Financial Planning?

Business financial planning is the process of looking at where your business is currently at in relation to your goals and objectives. In response, a plan will be created that sets out actionable steps to help you achieve your business aims. 

The progress of the plan will be monitored so that any steps can be adjusted if required. By undertaking financial planning, your business will have a much better chance of success, since you will have a better understanding of your running costs and projected profit.

Any business can benefit from financial planning, including individuals looking to manage their finances on a personal basis. However, startups or businesses that are looking to grow most commonly use the service. Aspects that will be looked at can include your finances, business cash flow, tax planning, business growth projection, investment risk management, financial contingency plans, and exit strategy. Your business financial planner will be with you throughout each step to offer their help and support as an expert in the industry. 

How much does Business Financial Planning cost? 

The cost of business financial planning ranges between $115 and $600 per hour, with an average cost of $250 per hour.

There is a large variation in costs and this is because it depends on the professional you choose, along with the scale of financial planning that is involved. 

For example, business financial planning for a small business is hugely different from that of a global corporation. However, the flexibility in price does make the service more accessible to a greater number of businesses and individuals overall.

A fixed fee may also be given rather than a cost per hour. Every financial planning firm will have a different pricing structure. 

What changes the price of Business Financial Planning? 

The cost of financial planning varies depending on several factors, including: 

• Services required

• Type of financial planner

• Research

• Implementation

• Review sessions

• Time

• Location

Services required

Business financial planners offer a wide range of services. You may be able to pick and choose certain services, making the process more affordable. 

On the cheaper end of the scale, implementation services start at just $130. This can involve completing paperwork or similar admin relating to what you have agreed in your plan. Some financial planners may include implementation as part of a package deal, rather than charging for it separately. 

A full financial review for your business can cost between $2,200 and $4,300 on average. This will look at aspects such as tax planning, growth strategies, and cash flow management. It is a very thorough service that can help point you in the right direction, especially if you are looking to grow or recover your business. 

The most expensive type of financial planning is a pension and investment review. Since most people pay into their pension their entire working life, a lot of money is at stake. Your financial planner will make sure you are on the right plan, and that the return on your investment is healthy. 

Some business financial planners will offer an even wider choice of services. If your company is a large corporation, expect the cost of any service to be higher, since the details will be more complex to work through. 

Type of financial planner

As well as financial planners, technical analysts and financial administrators can also help you map out the next steps for your business. Typically, those who are official financial planners will charge more. The service can also be accessed from an accountant’s office. 

Research

Plenty of research is going to be needed to find the best products, services, and strategies for your business financial plan. The exact amount will depend on your current position in relation to your goals. The more research is needed for your plan, the more it will cost unless the research is covered under a fixed fee. 

Implementation

The key stage of any business financial plan is the implementation of the outlined steps. If this requires actions from your financial planner rather than yourself, then they will charge for this service. For example, it could involve switching your pension on your behalf, or beginning your business exit strategy. 

Review sessions

Financial planning works best when it is closely monitored, and this involves holding regular review sessions. Your financial planner may suggest an optimum number of review sessions i.e every month, quarterly, or twice annually. Though, unless it’s part of your package, your professional will likely charge by the hour for your review sessions. 

Time

Financial planners will either charge by the hour, or factor in how much time your plan will take when creating a fixed fee. Follow-up sessions or additional services will likely have an hourly rate attached to them. 

Location

Depending on your location, you will notice fluctuating costs when it comes to hiring a business financial planner.

The national average is between $115 and $600 per hour. However, in Yellowknife, the cost is around $270 per hour. In Toronto, business financial planning costs $400 an hour on average, as it is the most expensive area in Canada to live in. Plus, there is a huge business district in Toronto too, so you’re likely to find the most experienced professionals here. 

Some business financial planners also work remotely, meaning you can access the best services regardless of your location.

Is it worth getting Business Financial Planning?

If you aren’t sure how to reach your goals, then a plan is needed to help get you there. By consulting an expert financial planner, you can make sense of where your finances are in relation to your goals. You can also see what may be preventing you from reaching your business objectives, and create a plan to work through any sticking points. Compared with continuing with no real structure, business financial planning is well worth the investment. 

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