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The final months of the year can test even the most organised financial adviser. Regulatory deadlines, client reviews and business targets all compete for attention as holiday schedules start to close in. To help you stay ahead and start 2026 with a clear desk, Kobus Wentzel, Group Distribution Executive at 1Life Insurance and Clientèle, shares a 10-point action plan that covers everything from compliance to client care.
1. Calculate and pay FSCA levies
Annual fees for FSPs are based on the licence and number of representatives as at 31 August of the same year. 2025 fees are around 5% higher than 2024 and due in November. These can be calculated now to estimate how much cash you will need.
2. Submit your statutory returns
Within 4 months of an FSP’s year-end, annual financial statements must be submitted to the regulator. According to the FSCA 2024/2025 Regulatory Actions Report, “over 90% of the licence withdrawals in 2024/2025 were due to the non-submission of statutory returns.” Submit on time or make sure you have an extension and submit before this expires.
3. Plan 2025/26 CPD
Many FSPs spend the last weeks of May rushing to get their CPD completed. Work out how many points you and any representatives or agents need. Draw up a list of possible events and activities where you can earn points, and select the most suitable and relevant.
4. Connect with your clients and complete any outstanding reviews
“Life customers who speak with their agents at least once a quarter have an average customer experience score of approximately 50, compared with roughly 30 for those who speak with their agent annually and zero for those with even fewer touchpoints,” according to a McKinsey study. Don’t miss out on the opportunities reviews bring to build lasting relationships and cross-sell or upsell.
5. Prepare for COFI
The Conduct of Financial Institutions Bill is coming into effect and intends, among other things, to change licensing requirements so that they are based on activity, such as distribution and financial advice. Although not yet law, COFI is expected to bring major changes to our industry. This article has more information and explains how you can prepare. Your compliance officer can also assist.
6. Plan and organise marketing and communications
Trust in financial services increased in 2024/2025 according to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer. That trust is built and maintained when your marketing and client communications are personal and relevant. Plan your activities for the rest of the year around these core pillars.
7. Get to grips with lapses and clawbacks
Check in with your broker consultant to make sure you are getting the most up-to-date reports of initial premiums paid, unpaid premiums, lapses and clawbacks. Analyse these to identify trends, know where problem areas are and what the financial implications could be. It is worth doing this monthly and spending the time needed to plan ahead.
8. Check in with your compliance officer
Your compliance officer is your expert on hand to help you meet regulatory requirements. You can also enquire about upcoming training and workshops. Finally, ask about upcoming regulation changes that could affect your business.
9. Update your succession plan
Who will look after your clients when you retire? Draw up or review your succession plan using our 8-point guide to ensure your clients will be cared for.
10. Check your product accreditations are up to date
Training and product accreditation ensure you remain compliant and able to advise on and sell the relevant products. Your BC can organise training on new products.
Close your year strong
Year-end pressures can feel relentless, but tackling these tasks early means you begin 2026 focused on growth rather than catch-up. Lean on your compliance officer and broker consultant for guidance and stay proactive. The reward is the freedom to focus on new opportunities in 2026.