- CRPC vs. CFP: Designations for Financial Advisors
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are two common professional designations that many financial hold. The requirements for the CFP are more difficult to complete. A CFP will generally understand a broad range of financial matters,… read more…
- CPFA vs. CFP: Designations for Financial Advisors
Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are two common types of credentials that financial advisors earn. Of the two, CFP requires significantly more education and experience. CPFAs primarily advise employer-sponsored retirement plans. CFPs have a more… read more…
- CFP vs. Series 7: Differences and When You Need Each
The CFP® and Series 7 are two designations you might see in the finance industry that are held by financial advisors. However, the CFP and Series 7 are used for different purposes. A series 7 allows you to sell investment products and securities, while a CFP establishes expertise in financial planning. I fyou need help… read more…
- How to Donate Cryptocurrencies
Today, not only do people worldwide put billions into cryptocurrencies, they can donate to charity using Bitcoin, Ethereum and more. Before doing the same it’s important to learn how crypto donations provide cash value to charities in need and allow donors to deduct cryptocurrency donations from their taxes. If you’re serious about donating crypto, you… read more…
- AAMS vs. CFP Designations for Financial Advisors
With all of the financial advisor certifications, it’s hard to know which ones may fit your needs. For example, you might be seeking a financial advisor with more experience building a financial plan. In this case, working with a CFP might be… read more…
- These States Are Most Popular for Financial Advisors
Financial advisors are moving their talent south. A new report by the Investment Adviser Association (IAA) and National Regulatory Services (NRS) shows that financial advisors have moved away from traditional financial centers like New York to Southern states such as Florida and Texas. In fact, between 2019 and 2021, the number of advisors in Florida… read more…
- Ask An Advisor: What Midyear Moves Will Cut Our Tax Bill?
We gained additional income and didn’t withhold enough on our Form W-4. We are currently not putting money into a retirement account but have access to a 401(k) through our employer. Would we be able to correct our withholding deficit… read more…
- Do Banks Have Financial Advisors?
When picking a financial advisor, investors have many options. You can work with an independent advisor or one from a major investment company. Since you already have a bank that you know and trust, some investors ask, “Do banks have… read more…
- CMA vs. CFA Designations for Financial Advisors
When searching for a financial advisor, you’ll come across numerous designations and licenses. It can be hard to understand what they mean and how they’re different. The CMA and CFA are two common fiduciary designations for financial advisors. Let’s compare… read more…
- CIMA vs. CFP Designations for Financial Advisors
Financial advisors can hold a range of certifications and licenses. Two such designations are CIMA (certified investment management analyst) and CFP (certified financial planner). The CIMA is intended for those who help people manage their investments, while the CFP is a much broader certification covering all aspects of personal finance. However, a CFP may also specialize… read more…
- I Have $30,000 to Invest. Will a Financial Advisor Work With Me?
I am a retired veteran with no retirement accounts and I want to start investing with $30,000. I’d like some investing advice, but I’m finding advisors have minimum investment requirements, and I’m hesitant to work with a robo-advisor. Can you… read more…
- RICP vs. CFP®: Comparing Designations for Financial Advisors
The retirement income certified professional (RICP) and Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) are two certifications for financial advisors. There are several ways in which they differ, in terms of training and professional focus. Being aware of those differences can help you determine which may better serve your specific needs. Try speaking with a financial advisor today… read more…
- AIF vs. CFP Designations for Financial Advisors
Financial planning can be complex, but the benefits of a well-thought-out plan are invaluable. Fortunately, the financial industry offers a wide array of professionals and certifications to help individuals and businesses define and achieve their goals. Among the most recognized credentials in financial planning are the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and the Accredited Investment Fiduciary… read more…
- How to Become a Financial Advisor in California
Being a financial advisor can be a career that helps people achieve their financial goals. And you’ll learn facts that will improve your own finances, too. To become a financial advisor, every state may have its own slightly different requirements to sell securities or recommend investments. Financial advisors in California must satisfy education, examination, experience… read more…
- Recession vs. Depression: Key Differences
When an economic storm rolls in, you might wonder if the economy has hit a recession or depression. Although both indicate difficult economic downturns, the causes and effects of each vary. Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between a recession and depression. If you need help navigating through economic downturns, a financial advisor… read more…
- How Much Does a CFP Make?
Earnings estimates for financial advisors holding the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation produce figures from less than $50,000 a year to nearly $325,000. The range reflects the impact of experience, geography, industry and other factors on CFP earning ability. It also depends to a considerable degree on the source of the estimate. The most reliable… read more…
- How to Become a Financial Advisor Without a Degree
Becoming a financial advisor without a degree is possible, as the field offers multiple pathways that don’t always require formal education. While many financial advisors hold degrees in fields like finance or economics, it’s not a strict requirement. Some advisors succeed by earning certifications, gaining relevant work experience, and building skills in client relations and… read more…
- How to Become a Financial Advisor in Texas
Becoming a financial advisor can be a lucrative career where you help people reach their financial goals. In order to become a financial advisor, there are specific steps that you must take in order to begin this career. Each state… read more…
- How to Prepare for a Financial Emergency
Americans are notoriously unprepared for a financial emergency, with fewer than half – according to some studies – able to afford an unexpected $1,000 expense. That’s an improvement from previous years, when most Americans didn’t have the savings to cover $400. But this still leaves most households vulnerable to a financial emergency. The good news is… read more…
- Differences Between Cost of Living and Inflation
Inflation measures how prices change for goods and services. When inflation is positive, or greater than 0.0, it means that prices have gone up for the same products or services. Cost of living measures what you pay to maintain an overall lifestyle. Inflation can cause your cost of living to increase through increased costs of… read more…
- How to Get Emergency Cash Without Wrecking Your Financial Plan
Financial emergencies can catch you off guard. You can’t budget for an unexpected legal crisis, a loved one suddenly needing costly medical treatment or getting blind-sided with a layoff. Handled incorrectly, raising emergency cash to respond to something unplanned but… read more…
- How to Become a Financial Advisor in Florida
If you’re looking for a career path that allows you to help people grow their wealth and navigate difficult life decisions, becoming a financial advisor could be a fit for you. Additionally, working as a financial advisor could be well within reach if you want a career change. Financial advisors in Florida must satisfy examination… read more…
- Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor During an Annual Review
Regularly meeting with a financial advisor can help you maximize your money and keep on top of your long-term financial goals. Financial advisors can help you save more, reduce your debt and invest more wisely. Experts recommend speaking with your advisor… read more…
- Should I Use a Financial Advisor or Do It Myself?
Some financial situations can be handled on your own, while others are best navigated in consultation with an advisor. Ultimately, the decision to work with a financial advisor or go it alone depends on a litany of factors, including your… read more…
- Ask an Advisor: I’m Way Behind on Retirement Savings. What Do I Do?
I turn 58 this year and am at a loss for what to do or how to plan for my retirement. I only have a small amount of money invested through previous employers, and I’m not sure how to save now that I am self-employed. I am really concerned about my retirement but don’t know… read more…