The CFP Difference

While anyone may call himself or herself a “financial planner,” only individuals who complete the certification and renewal requirements of the CFP Board can call themselves a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. To become a CFP®, Carl had to meet the following requirements:

• Education: Carl received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Utah.
• Examination: Carl passed a comprehensive two-day, 10-hour CFP® Certification Examination. He had to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the financial planning process, tax planning, employee benefits and retirement planning, estate planning, investment management and insurance.
• Experience: CFP® professionals must have three years minimum experience in the financial planning process prior to earning the right to use the CFP® certification marks. Carl has over 15 years of experience.
• Ethics: To maintain certification, Carl agrees to abide by a strict code of professional conduct, known as CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility, that sets forth their ethical responsibilities to the public, clients, and employers. The CFP Board also performed a background check on Carl during this process, and he disclosed any investigations or legal proceedings related to his professional or business conduct.