CFP® Certification Requirements

 

 

 

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN WORKING WITH A CFP® PROFESSIONAL

It is important to understand how CFP® professionals deliver their services and how they are compensated. Planners are compensated for the services they provide in different ways. Some are paid through commissions and others through fees or a combination of both. While all CFP® practitioners are trained to provide you with comprehensive financial planning services, some specialize in one or more areas, or work with specific types of clients. Be sure to ask the planner how he or she is paid.

 

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I REMEMBER WHEN SELECTING A PLANNER?

As more people call themselves "financial planners," finding the right professional to address your financial planning needs isn't always easy. Become familiar with the planner's business style and understand the level of services he or she provides. Look for a measure of the planner's commitment to ethical behavior and adherence to high professional standards. Look for a financial planner who will put you and your needs at the center of every financial planning engagement.

 

CFP® Certification Requirements

Working with a CFP® professional is an important first step toward reaching your financial goals. These advisors meet rigorous education and experience requirements.

 

EDUCATION

 CFP® professionals must complete nearly 100 integrated financial planning topics, including:

  • Investment planning
  • Tax planning
  • Retirement planning
  • Estate planning
  • Risk management
  • Insurance planning
  • Financial management

In addition to completing a comprehensive financial planning curriculum approved by the CFP Board, or equivalent academic coursework, CFP® professionals are required to complete continuing education coursework.

 

EXAMINATION

 CFP® candidates must pass a comprehensive 6-hour CFP® Certification Examination that tests their ability to apply financial knowledge in an integrated format. Based on regular research of what planners do, the exam covers:

  • Establishing and defining the Client-Planner relationship
  • Gathering informtion necessary to fulfill the engagement
  • Analyzing and evaluating the client's current financial status
  • Developing recommendations
  • Communication recommendations
  • Implementing recommendations
  • Monitoring recommendations
  • Practicing within professional and regulatory standards


EXPERIENCE

CFP® professionals must have a minimum of three years experience prior to earning the right to use the CFP® certification marks. As a result, CFP® practitioners possess financial counseling skills in addition to financial planning knowledge.