Most people think all financial planners are “certified,” but this is not true. Anyone can call himself a “financial planner.” Only those who have fulfilled the certification and continuing education requirements of a 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 clients’ interests above their own.

A CFP is an accreditation bestowed by the CFP Board of standards. To obtain the designation required a minimum of 3 years’ experience, B.S. degree and passing a comprehensive 10 hour test covering the areas of insurance, estate planning, financial planning, investments and retirement planning. CFPs also complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. a CFP is obligated by ethical standards to work in your best interests and have a comprehensive knowledge of financial planning.