Are you looking for financial advice in a specific area? An advisor’s designation can help you understand if the person has a more specialized background that would be the right fit for you.
Here are some common designations. Keep in mind that some types of advisors offer planning and advice services only, while others can sell products. In addition to understanding a potential advisor’s designations, be sure to check the individual’s registration.
Please note the following list of financial designations is not exhaustive.
Certified Financial Planner, CFP®
The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation is an internationally recognized standard for financial planning. It is granted by the Financial Planning Standards Council (FPSC). An advisor with a CFP may help you with personal financial planning and offer advice on investment products and strategies. Learn more…
Chartered Professional Accountant, CPA
Advisors with the CPA designation are qualified professionals who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to providing the highest standards of accounting, ethics and best business practices. Learn more…
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Advisors with the CFA credential have mastered a broad range of practical portfolio management and advanced investment analysis skills. Learn more…
Chartered Investment Manager, CIM®
Advisors with the CIM designation are trained to offer portfolio management services and sophisticated investment strategies. The designation is conferred by the Canadian Securities Institute and indicates successful completion of courses in investment management and portfolio management. Learn more…
Chartered Life Underwriter, CLU®
The Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) is a professional financial advisor specializing in developing solutions for individuals, business owners and professionals in the areas of income replacement, risk management, estate planning and wealth transfer. Learn more…
Personal Financial Planner, PFP®
The PFP® is a comprehensive financial advice designation offered by the Canadian Securities Institute. Advisors with the PFP are trained in financial products, estate planning and financial planning. Learn more…
Registered Financial Planner, R.F.P.
The R.F.P. designation is conferred by the Institute of Advanced Financial Planners and indicates expertise in financial planning. Learn more…
Trust and Estate Practitioner, T.E.P.
The T.E.P. is a designation granted through the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. A financial advisor with the T.E.P designation has expertise in the planning, creation and management of trusts and estates. Learn more…
