Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board)

The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board) is the nonprofit certifying authority responsible for setting and enforcing the standards for CFP® certification in the United States. Since 1985, the Board has overseen the education, examination, experience, and ethics requirements that define the CFP® credential—widely regarded as the gold standard in comprehensive financial planning.

📜 Flagship Designation

CFP® – Certified Financial Planner: The premier credential for financial planners, covering retirement, investment, tax, estate, and insurance planning. CFP® professionals adhere to fiduciary standards and a strict Code of Ethics, ensuring client‑first guidance and professional accountability.

🧭 Overview

CFP Board establishes and maintains the standards for competent and ethical financial planning. Candidates must complete a CFP Board Registered Education Program, pass the CFP® exam, meet experience requirements, and commit to ongoing continuing education. The CFP® designation is recognized by regulators, employers, and consumers as a mark of trust, professionalism, and comprehensive planning expertise.

The Board also oversees disciplinary enforcement, ensuring that certificants uphold fiduciary obligations and maintain the integrity of the financial planning profession.

🤝 Community & Support

CFP Board supports a nationwide community of more than 97,000 CFP® professionals through continuing education, public awareness campaigns, research initiatives, and professional resources. The organization hosts conferences, publishes industry insights, and maintains a public database of certified professionals. Its enforcement of ethical standards strengthens public confidence in financial planning.

📌 Quick Facts

Website: cfp.net
Founded: 1985
Headquarters: Washington, DC, USA
Phone: 800‑487‑1497
Credential Focus: Comprehensive financial planning, fiduciary standards, ethics, retirement, tax, estate, insurance, and investment strategy
Flagship Designation: CFP® – Certified Financial Planner

🏛 Sector Assignment

Primary Sector: Financial Planning & Retirement Services
Secondary Sector: Wealth Management & Fiduciary Standards

🗂 Category Assignment

Comprehensive Financial Planning
Retirement & Income Strategy
Investment & Portfolio Management
Tax & Estate Planning
Ethics & Fiduciary Practice

🔗 Related Providers

🎓 Related Designations

ChFC – Chartered Financial Consultant
WMCP – Wealth Management Certified Professional
RICP – Retirement Income Certified Professional
RMA – Retirement Management Advisor