CFP (Certified Financial Planner)

A person who has been certified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (see www.cfp.net ) to assist individuals in the process of meeting their life goals through the proper management of their finances. In order to be certified an individual must complete the following steps:

1. Complete the educational requirement
2. Pass the CFP® Certification Examination
3. Complete at least three years of qualifying full-time work experience
4. Adhere to the Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and pass the background check
5. Pay the certification fees
6. Receive Authorization to Use the CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™; and marks.

A financial planner typically charges their clients either on a fee basis (e.g. percent of assets) or based upon the financial transactions executed.