The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has an excellent section of its website aimed at the general public principally dealing with financial products. www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk

The FSA also offers a quick "Financial Healthcheck". It takes only a few minutes and aims to help you identify your financial needs. www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/healthcheck

The Government sponsored guide to money, tax and benefits can be found at www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/index.htm

For greater detail and more technical information on taxation and State benefits, the HM Revenue and Customs (formerly the Inland Revenue) website is a good starting point. www.hmrc.gov.uk

The Trustnet website www.trustnet.co.uk offers financial commentary and a wide range of data including fund performance.

The website of the Institute of Financial Planning www.financialplanning.org.uk, although not brilliantly laid out, does explain what you can expect from a Certified Financial Planner and the benefits of seeking advice.