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Why Work With a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®)?

Choosing the right financial advisor can seem confusing. A friend may have recommended someone to you, or you might feel overwhelmed by the number of financial advisors in your area. It signifies that this choice is a crucial step toward achieving your financial goals. Among the many designations financial advisors can hold, CFP® or Certified Financial Planner stands out as one of the most trusted and respected. But what exactly does working with a CFP® mean for you?

What Is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)?

What Is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)?

A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®) is a professional who has met rigorous educational and ethical requirements set by the CFP Board. CFP®s are trained in a wide range of financial areas, from investment strategies to retirement planning, tax planning, and estate management. The certification prepares these professionals with the expertise to offer comprehensive financial planning services.

Why Choose a CFP® Over a General Financial Advisor?

When deciding between a CFP® vs. a financial advisor, it’s essential to understand that while all CFP® professionals are financial advisors, not all financial advisors are CFP®s. Here's why that distinction matters:

  • Rigorous Certification Process: To become a CFP®, financial professionals must complete a demanding curriculum, pass a comprehensive exam, and acquire at least three years of experience. General financial advisors may not have this level of specialized training.
  • Ethical Commitment: CFP®s are held to a strict code of ethics and are fiduciaries, which means they are legally required to act in your best interests. Not all financial advisors are fiduciaries, which can impact the quality of the advice they provide.
  • Holistic Approach: Unlike some financial advisors who may focus on investment products, CFP®s offer a more comprehensive approach to financial planning, ensuring all aspects of your financial life are covered—from taxes and retirement to insurance and estate planning.
Benefits of Working With a CFP®

Benefits of Working With a CFP®

Working with a CFP® comes with several advantages that can make a significant difference in your financial planning experience and outcomes. Here are some key CFP® benefits to consider:

  • Ethical Standards and Fiduciary Duty: One of the most compelling reasons to choose a CFP® is the fiduciary standard they must adhere to, which means they are committed to acting in your best financial interest at all times.
  • Ongoing Education and Expertise: A CFP® is required to continue their education to keep up with changing regulations, tax laws, and financial strategies, helping ensure that the advice you receive is always current and in line with best practices.
  • Objective Financial Guidance: Since CFP®s are not bound to sell specific products or services, they offer unbiased, objective advice that focuses entirely on your financial well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a CFP® and a financial advisor?
While both can provide financial advice, a CFP® has undergone rigorous training and is held to a fiduciary standard, meaning they must act in your best interests. Not all financial advisors are required to follow the same ethical guidelines.

How much does it cost to work with a CFP®?
Costs vary based on services, but at Westchester Financial Planning, we offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We work to provide the best value for our clients' financial planning needs.

How often should I meet with my CFP®?
Financial planning is not a one-time event. We recommend regular check-ins, at least annually, to review your goals and adjust your plan as needed.

Need a CFP®?

Need a CFP®?

If you're ready to take control of your financial future, contact Westchester Financial Planning today to schedule a consultation with a CFP® professional who can help you set and achieve your goals. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive financial planning services tailored to your unique needs, backed by the highest ethical standards and a commitment to your long-term success.

Russell Glickstern

Russell Glickstern

Wealth Advisor

914-244-9470

914-244-9471

russell.glickstern@lpl.com

Russell Glickstern, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®), is the founder and principal of Westchester Financial Planning. Over the course of more than 33 years, he has helped generations of his clients pursue their financial goals.