Why a CFP®?

By considering all aspects of your financial situation, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can help you manage your finances, develop a strategy for meeting your goals and guide you through the personal financial planning process.

What is a CFP®?

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certificates are individuals who have met CFP Board’s education, examination and experience requirements, have agreed to adhere to high standards of ethical conduct and who complete CFP Board’s certification requirements, including continuing education, to use the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. A CFP® practitioner is a financial professional authorized to use the CFP® certification marks who has identified himself or herself to CFP Board as being actively engaged in providing financial planning services. All CFP® certificates have voluntarily submitted to the regulatory authority of CFP Board.

Why should I choose a financial planner over another type of financial adviser?

A financial planner should focus on your needs first before recommending a course of action. Most planners have been trained to take a broad look at your financial situation, while accountants, investment advisers, stockbrokers or insurance agents may focus on a particular area of your financial life. Always ask a financial adviser what qualifies him or her to offer financial planning services.

How Can a CFP^® Help Me?

Creating a financial plan helps you see the big picture and set long and short-term life goals, a crucial step in mapping out your financial future. When you have a strategy and a financial plan, it's easier to make financial decisions and stay on track to meet your goals. Working with a CFP® professional can help you with your financial well being and give you confidence and help you in pursuing your financial planning goals. Some people decide to do their own financial planning, but you may want to seek help from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional if you:

• Want to better manage your finances, but aren't sure where to start.
• Don't have time to do your own financial planning.
• Want a professional opinion about the plan you've developed.
• Don't have sufficient experience in certain areas such as investments, insurance, taxes or retirement planning.
• Have an immediate need or unexpected life event.

There are many benefits of financial planning. If any of the above questions apply to you, it may be time to call a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional to help you reach your financial goals and achieve financial success.

Find Out More

Please visit the CFP® website at www.letsmakeaplan.org.

Copyright © 2012, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Board of Standards Inc. All rights reserved.