Various Financial Advisor Certifications

When you are considering a career in the area of financial advisor jobs, it is important to know that it is a job that is not all about numbers but there is also a great deal of importance and emphasis on the letters that follow your name on your business card. These letters help to designate various financial advisor certifications you currently hold. Being a financial adviser, you can become certified in a variety of skill sets that are based on your individual area of expertise. The certifications that are most commonly sought after include: • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)—this certification is granted to one who specializes in the accounting field. They have also met the necessary education, licensing, examination, and experience requirements. They will prepare and file your tax returns along with performing subsequent tax audits. This can be for a business or individual. Some who have already been designated as a CPA will also get a financial certification as a Personal Finance Specialist (PFS). This will show their understanding of taxes as well as personal financial planning. • Certified Financial Planner & reg (CFP & reg)—this professional has proven themselves to be a finance specialist with well-rounded knowledge of all the major aspects of the financial industry, specifically individual financial planning needs. They have successfully completed and passed an examination, has obtained the minimum educational background, and the required level of experience in the industry. They will also have to complete ongoing continuing education requirements. They will also have to periodically retest to be able to keep their financial advisors certification of CFP & reg. • Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)—these certificates are given to the individual who focuses on the economic aspects of various benefits and insurance policies. To earn this certification involves a combination of an extensive series of examinations and study programs. A financial adviser who is CLU-certified is equipped to deal with a wide array of topics. Some of the topics covered are life and health insurance, real estate planning, investment management, and retirement planning. This certification is often required for an individual that is looking for work in the insurance industry that will be dealing with the financial aspects of insurance. • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)—the individual who holds this certification has passed three exams successfully after they have three years of relevant experience in accounting. This certification is designed to let employers and clients that you have an extensive understanding of accounting procedures like investment analysis and portfolio management. Many that hold this certification will also hold a Chartered Investment Counselor (CIC). This supplemental certification shows that the financial advisor has demonstrated a more detailed understanding of portfolio management practices and standards.