Financial Planning is a process; and not about products or services which are instead, the solutions to the concerns, goals, resources, and priorities people have that the process helps them rationally address.

The below discussion expands upon Financial Planning and shows where to find information about many of the various designations and credentials that exist today.

o An educational link at www.cfp.net/learn/ would help people determine

  • learn about the planning process,
  • if they need an advisor,
  • and other learning tools.

o This brochure (Cutting Through the Confusion) describes the functions of investment advisors, financial planners, and brokers. It is from the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), the oldest international organization, organized in 1919, devoted to investor protection.

There are other designations and certifications that exist which are discussed in Appendix D in Wealth Odyssey; are also listed on the www.cfp.net website by searching for "Financial Services Credentials" in the search box; and finally, available on www.nasd.com searching for "Understanding Professional Designations" in the search box (may also be on the "Investor Information" tab).

  • Each location discusses these credentials differently and to different lengths; however, these are the main locations for the most accurate and up to date information I have found to date.
     
o More information about the financial planning process, learning resources from the Board of Standards, and a planner search link to find a credentialed advisor, all can be found on the story ideas page through this link.

To find a planner in your local area - click here.


 

 

 

Page updated 27 Sep 06

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