What is a CFP®

WHAT IS A CFP

A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER practitioner or a CFP® professional is a financial professional who meets the requirements established by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. While others may call themselves financial planners, only those who demonstrate the requisite experience, education, and ethical standards are awarded the CFP® mark.

What are the requirements?

In order to obtain the CFP® mark, an applicant must: Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited

college or university, Complete a CFP® Board-registered education program, Pass the 10-hour CFP® certification exam, Have at least three years of qualifying full-time work experience in financial planning Pass a professional fitness standards and background check. Once appointed, a CFP® professional must meet continuing education requirements every other year in order to maintain the certification.

 

What does a CFP® professional do?

A CFP® professional is trained to develop and implement comprehensive financial plans for individuals, businesses, and organizations. He or she has the knowledge and skills to objectively assess your current financial status, identify potential problem areas, and recommend appropriate options. You're also working with someone who's demonstrated expertise in multiple areas of financial planning, including income and estate tax, investment planning, risk management, and retirement planning.