What does it mean to hold the CFP® marks?

Most people think all financial planners are "certified," but this isn't true- nor are all certifications the same.

Anyone may call him or herself a "financial planner," but only those who have fulfilled the certification and renewal requirements of the CFP Board can display the CFP® certification marks, which represent a high level of competency, ethics, and professionalism.  CFP Board's Standards of Professional Conduct require CFP® professionals to look out for your interests above their own.

Education

Unlike many financial advisors, CFP® professionals are required to develop their theoretical and practical knowledge by completing a comprehensive course of study at a college or university with a curriculum approved by the CFP Board.  Planning professionals with training outside of the CFP Board's approved list may meet the education requirement through a review process, which looks at transcripts, previous course work, and other professional designations.

Examination

CFP® professionals must have a minimum of three years' experience in the financial planning process prior to earning the right to use the CFP@ certification marks.  We have many decades worth and this hands-on experience guarantees that CFP® professionals have practical financial planning knowledge, so you can count on that to help you create a realistic financial plan that fits your individual needs.

Ethics

When it comes to ethics and professional responsibility, CFP® professionals are held to the highest standards.  CFP Board's Code of Ethics outlines CFP® professionals' obligations to uphold principals of integrity, objectivity, competence, fairness, confidentiality, professionalism and diligence.  The Rules of Conduct require CFP professionals to put clients' interests above their own, and to provide their financial planning services as a "fiduciary"- acting in the best interest of their financial planning clients.  CFP® professionals are subject to sanctions if they violate these standards.

Enforcement

CFP Board's rigorous enforcement of its Standards of Professional Conduct- including releasing disciplinary information to the public- distinguishes the CFP® certification from the many other designations in the financial services industry.  Anyone who seeks CFP® certification is subject to a background check, and those whose past conduct falls short of CFP Board's ethical and practice standards can be barred from becoming certified.  After attaining certification, a CFP® professional who violates CFP Board's ethical and practice standards becomes subject to disciplinary action, which could include the permanent revocation of certification.  Through diligent enforcement of its ethical and practice standards, CFP Board provides you with the confidence that your CFP® professional is both competent and ethical.