Customers make back adviser costs 5,800 times

Advisers typically charged £150 per hour in 2015, which is unchanged from 2014 but 14% cheaper than in 2013 (£175).

Unbiased.co.uk estimated that planning for retirement from the age of 25 could put an extra £34,300 into the pension pot, making a return of 5,813% on the estimated £580 cost of talking to an adviser about retirement planning.

Karen Barrett, chief executive of unbiased.co.uk, said: “These findings show quite dramatically how the cost of retirement planning advice can be dwarfed by the long-term benefits.

“The Value of Advice report found that, on average, people who take advice on their retirement planning have an estimated £48,279 more in their pot compared to those in a similar income bracket who do not take advice, with tax relief and interest factored in. It’s hard to think of a more clear-cut demonstration of value for money.

“It’s also important not to underestimate the additional benefits of advice, such as time savings, confidence and peace of mind. Our research has shown time and again that seeking professional advice sooner rather than later is the most game-changing factor when it comes to planning for retirement.”