Most people think all financial advisors are “certified,” but this isn’t true. Anyone can use the title “investment planner” or “financial advisor”. Only those who have fulfilled the certification and renewal requirements of CFP Board can display the CFP® certification trademarks which represent a high level of competency, ethics and professionalism. And because they are held to a fiduciary standard of care when providing investment planning services, a CFP® professional is required to act in your best interest.

A CFP® professional must:

1. Complete a comprehensive curriculum made up of courses on the investment planning process, tax planning, employee benefits and retirement planning, estate planning, investment management and insurance.
2. Have worked in the industry for a number of years delivering services related to the aforementioned coursework.  
3. Adhere to the principles of integrity, objectivity, competence, fairness, confidentiality, professionalism and diligence when dealing with clients.
4. Pass a comprehensive exam that tests their abilities to apply financial knowledge to real-life situations.  

These items ensure a CFP® professional not only has practical financial knowledge but are highly qualified. To find out more about this and other industry designations, visit the CFP® professional website: www.cfp.net