Designations and Credentials - Adviser Investments

Professional

Designations and Credentials

Information Regarding Professional Designations and Credentials Held by Adviser Investments Employees

This page contains a description of professional designations and credentials held by at least one employee of Adviser Investments. You should visit each organization’s website to review information about designations/credentials that you believe may be pertinent to your needs as an investor and client of Adviser Investments. The fact that an employee holds one or more designations/credentials does not guarantee that a specific investment-related result will be achieved; nor does such protect against loss of investment principal. Additionally, clients and prospective clients should understand that not all Adviser Investments’ Relationship Managers and their team members advising on client accounts will hold all or any of the certifications, credentials and designations described below. Thus, there is no representation or guarantee that a particular designation/credential holder will work with you or on your account.

Marks used to indicate designations, credentials, certificates, etc. are the intellectual property of the issuing organization and are used by individuals with the permission of the organization in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth by the organization. Adviser Investments is not affiliated with any issuing organizations and has no control or influence over whether an individual is permitted to use a particular designation/credential or is terminated from using such.

Although Adviser Investments may pay for or reimburse employees for credential, designation or membership applications and renewal fees or dues for such described below, Adviser Investments is not a member of any of the organizations and has no control of or obligation to these organizations.

Regulatory authorities including the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and state securities regulators do not endorse any of the designations and certifications below even if these authorities may provide information on these designations and credentials on their websites or in their communications with the public.

Adviser Investments is not responsible for how each organization below determines what information to present on an individual designation or credential holder, or how such information presented by the organization.


Accredited Estate Planner® Designation (AEP®)

The Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) designation is owned and issued by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils.

The National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC) partners with the American College of Financial Services to offer the AEP designation. Requirements for all applicants include active practice for a minimum of five years within the following disciplines, accounting, insurance and financial planning, law, philanthropy and trust services. The individual must devote at least a third of one’s time to estate planning. Applicants must hold one or more of the following professional credentials: JD (active law license required if this is the only credential with which you are applying), CPA, CLU®, CFP®, ChFC®, CPWA®, CFA, CAP®, CSPG, CTFA, MSFS, and MST. Applicants must obtain three professional references from individuals they have worked with on estate planning cases and assignments. Each applicant must be a current member of an affiliated local estate planning council. Additional requirements for applicants with 5-15 years of practice includes completion of two graduate courses provided through the American College.

The National Association of Estate Planners & Councils has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process and does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to The National Association of Estate Planners & Councils.

For more information on the AEP® designation and qualifications, visit: http://www.naepc.org/designations/estate-planners

http://www.naepc.org/assets/national/pdf/AEP_qualifications2.pdf

FINRA also provides information about this certificate program, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/aep

The Accredited Estate Planner® Designation and AEP® are marks of National Association of Estate Planners & Councils and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils. National Association of Estate Planners & Councils has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of National Association of Estate Planners & Councils and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®)

The Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) designation is issued by the Fi360, Inc. and the Center for Fiduciary Studies, a division of Fi360.

In order to attain the AIF® designation, an individual must complete the AIF training requirements (an online training component that generally takes about 8 to 10 hours to complete); pass the AIF® exam; meet the AIF experience requirements; attest adherence to the AIF Code of Ethics; attest adherence to the AIF Conduct Standards; submit application; and pay required dues. It is estimated that it takes on average about 22 hours for an individual to complete the AIF training requirement and pass the AIF exam. In order to meet the AIF experience requirements, individuals must have either (1) minimum of two years of relevant experience, a bachelor’s degree, and a professional credential; (2) minimum of five years of relevant experience, a bachelor’s degree or a professional credential; or (3) minimum of two years of relevant experience. For purposes of AIF designation attainment, “relevant experience” is experience “which has been accrued in a non-clerical role within the financial services (or a related) industry.” Annually, AIF designation holders must complete 6 hours of qualifying continuing education, attest adhere to both the AIF Code of Ethics and the AIF Conduct Standards and pay required dues.

For more information on the AIF designation process, the AIF Code of Ethics and the AIF Conduct Standards, visit: https://fi360.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360012759194-What-it-Means-to-be-an-AIF-Designee

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/aif

The Fi360, Inc. and the Center for Fiduciary Studies have sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation’s ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the Fi360, Inc. and the Center for Fiduciary Studies regarding this certification.

The mark AIF® is a mark of Fi360 and is used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of Fi360. Fi360 has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use this mark with the permission of Fi360, Inc. and the Center for Fiduciary Studies and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Accredited Wealth Management Advisor™ (AWMA®)

The Accredited Wealth Management Advisor designation is owned and issued by the College for Financial Planning®—a Kaplan Company.

In order to attain the AWMA designation, individuals must complete a course of study covering wealth strategies, equity-based compensation planning and tax reduction and asset protection planning. All individuals must also pass an end-of-course examination. In order to maintain the AWMA designation, individuals must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.

For more information on the AWMA certification process, visit: https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Requirements

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/awma

College for Financial Planning members must comply with the College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct. The College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct can be viewed at https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Standards

The College for Financial Planning has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the College for Financial Planning regarding this certification.

The marks Accredited Wealth Management Advisor (AWMA®) are marks of the College for Financial Planning and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the College for Financial Planning. The College for Financial Planning has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the College for Financial Planning and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Behavioral Financial Advisor™ (BFA™)

The Behavioral Financial Advisor™ designation is owned and issued by Think2Perform.

In order to attain the BFA™ designation, individuals must complete two courses in behavioral financial advice—”Behavioral Financial Advice and You” and “Behavioral Financial Advice and Your Clients”—and pass an examination.

In order to maintain the BFA™ designation, individuals must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Continuing education credits for one or more of the following professional designations CFP, ChFC, American College’s PACE program (CLU, CLF, RHU, CAP and CASL) can serve to maintain the BFA™ designation.

For more information on the BFA™ designation, visit: https://portal.kaplanprofessional.com/learn/Think2Perform/portal/faqs

FINRA also provides information about this certification. Visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/bfa

Think2Perform has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to Think2Perform regarding this certification.

These marks are marks of Think2Perform and are used herein for informational purposes only:

  • Behavioral Financial Advisor™
  • BFA™

Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with Think2Perform. Think2Perform has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of Think2Perform and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certification in Long Term Care (CLTC®)

Certification for Long-Term Care, LLC created the CLTC® designation in 1999 and continues to hold the trademark.

In order to attain the CLTC® designation, individuals must pass a 100-question multiple choice online exam. Two programs are offered to prepare candidates for the exam. They may take a two-day Master Class which provides a comprehensive classroom-based training experience or online learning via eCLTC. Both provide the same material, but in different formats. Individuals have 120 days to successfully pass the exam from the initial date of registration. After passing the exam, the designation is valid for one year, after which an annual renewal fee must be paid. To maintain the designation, the individual must complete the CLTC renewal course or state mandated Long-Term care training every two years.

For more information on the CLTC® designation, visit: https://www.ltc-cltc.com/page/about-designation

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/cltc

Certification for Long-Term Care, LLC has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to Certification for Long-Term Care, LLC regarding this designation.

The marks Certified in Long Term Care® and CLTC® are marks of Certification for Long-Term Care, LLC and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with Long-Term Care, LLC. Long-Term Care, LLC has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of Long-Term Care, LLC and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certified College Financial Consultant (CCFC)

The Certified College Financial Consultant designation is issued by the American Institute of Certified College Financial Consultants, LLC (AICCFC).

In order to attain the CCFC designation, the individual must hold a CPA, PFS, ChFCs, CFA, EA, CDFA, AFC, FPQP or have an MS in Taxation, LLM in Taxation or hold the Series 65 license. This is a self-study course that includes 9 modules with exams after each course and is designed to be completed in approximately 15 hours. A passing score of at least 70% must be received on all respective assessments. Designation holders must complete 4 hours of continuing education on an annual basis and the continuing education is provided through quarterly webinars hosted by the AICCFC. The candidate pays an initial fee for the course and an annual fee in order to earn the right to use the CCFC designation marks. In addition, the designation holder must adhere to a Code of Ethics founded on the principles of integrity, objectivity, competence, fair treatment, privacy, professionalism and diligence. The Code of Ethics can be viewed at https://www.aiccfc.org/codeofethics.

For more information on the CCFC certification process, visit:
https://www.aiccfc.org/

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/ccfc

Adviser Investments does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to the American Institute of Certified College Financial Consultants.

The Certified College Financial Consultant designation marks is used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with American Institute of Certified College Financial Consultants, LLC and the American Institute of Certified College Financial Consultants, LLC has not passed on or approved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of the marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the American Institute of Certified College Financial Consultants, LLC in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®)

The Certified Divorce Financial Analyst designation is owned and issued by the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts, which was founded in 1993.

In order to attain the CDFA® designation, individuals must meet eligibility requirements.  Candidates must have either five years of relevant experience or a bachelor’s degree and three years of on-the-job experience. The relevant experience must include experience with financial planning or family law or experience with three or more of the following: the tax code, investment advisory or management, real estate, mortgage and reverse mortgage lending, life and disability insurance or providing financial therapy or coaching. The designation is an advanced program, and CDFA® candidates must be able to analyze pensions and retirement plans, recognize the tax consequences of different settlement proposals, understand the short-term and long-term effects of dividing property, and collect and analyze data, among other things.  To attain the certification, candidates must pass an exam of 150 multiple-choice questions with a  grade of 75% or higher. Three programs are offered to prepare candidates for the exam:  a text-based self-study program, a 10-module self-paced eLearning program, and a virtual classroom which includes weekly live calls, or candidates may choose to simply purchase and schedule the examination. The designation is valid for one year, after which a fee is required to continue its use.  In order to retain the designation, members must complete 30 hours of divorce-related CE credits every two years.

For more information on the CDFA® designation, visit: https://institutedfa.com/about-cdfa-course/

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/cdfa

The Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts determines whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts for this designation.

The marks Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and CDFA® are marks of the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts. The Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®)

The CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification is owned and issued by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.

In order to attain the CFP certification, professionals must first complete CFP Board Registered Coursework. Coursework typically takes between 12 and 18 months to complete and covers eight principal knowledge areas: professional conduct, financial planning, education planning, risk management and insurance planning, investment planning, tax planning, retirement savings and income planning, and estate planning. Professionals registering for coursework on or after January 1, 2012 also must complete a capstone course in which candidates develop a financial plan. However, licensed attorneys, certified public accountants, chartered financial analysts, chartered financial consultants, chartered life underwriters, doctors of business administration, Ph. D holders in the fields of finance, economics, business administration, and financial planning may qualify for “accelerated path qualifying credentials” that allows the individual to skip coursework and sit for the CFP examination. After completion of the CFP Coursework or qualifying for the accelerated path, the individual must pass the CFP exam. In addition to coursework completion and passing the CFP exam, the individual must have 6,000 hours of financial-planning-related professional experience or have 4,000 hours of qualifying apprenticeship experience. Individuals must also pass a background check conducted by the CFP and pay an application fee of $150, and an annual certification fee of $355. Every two years, individuals must complete 30 hours of continuing education to maintain their CFP status. Individuals also commit to be bound by the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct as a condition to attain the CFP designation. Individuals must also have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

For more information on the certification process, visit: https://www.cfp.net/get-certified/certification-process

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/cfp

The CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct can be viewed at https://www.cfp.net/-/media/files/cfp-board/standards-and-ethics/cfp-code-and-standards.pdf?la=en&hash=AFC0087B53EDE26B2A478BD84DF7DDA3

The CFP Board has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the CFP Board regarding this certification.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

The marks CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. has not passed on or approved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®)

The Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®) designation is owned and issued by the Investment & Wealth InstituteTM.

In order to attain the CPWA certification, individuals must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or hold a CIMA®, RMA®, CFA®, CFP®, ChFC ® or CPA license; have at least five years’ experience in financial services; pass a background check; complete the CPWA educational program, which can be completed either in-person or online; pass the CPWA examination (135 multiple choice questions); and attest to their adherence to the Investment & Wealth Institute® Code of Professional Responsibility. The CPWA educational program takes an estimated six to nine months to complete and covers core topics of ethics, behavioral finance, family dynamics, tax planning, portfolio management; risk management and asset protection, charitable giving and endowments, estate issues and wealth transfer, planning issues for executives, planning for closely held business owners, and retirement management. Every two years, CPWA certification holders must complete 40 hours of continuing education, pay the certification renewal fee, attest to their continued adherence to the Investment & Wealth Institute® Code of Professional Responsibility, and report any regulatory actions or complaints.

For more information on the CPWA certification process, visit: https://investmentsandwealth.org/CPWA

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/cpwa

CPWA certification holders must comply with the Investment & Wealth InstituteTM Code of Professional Responsibility. The Investment & Wealth Institute® Code of Professional Responsibility can be viewed at https://investmentsandwealth.org/getmedia/0a33326a-726f-4ae6-a78a-15594c3ffc88/01-170822-03-0545-Code-of-PR.pdf

The Investment & Wealth Institute has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process and does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to the Investment & Wealth Institute regarding this certification.

The marks Certified Private Wealth Advisor® and CPWA® are marks of the Investment & Wealth Institute and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the Investment & Wealth Institute. The Investment & Wealth Institute has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of Investment & Wealth Institute and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is a credential issued by a state or jurisdiction’s Board of Accountancy.

To locate and learn more about a state’s or jurisdiction’s Board of Accountancy, visit https://nasba.org/stateboards/ and select the appropriate state or jurisdiction.

To learn more about a state’s or jurisdiction’s CPA credentialization requirements, visit https://www.accountingedu.org/become-a-cpa/ and select the appropriate state or jurisdiction.

The state or jurisdiction Board of Accountancy has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable CPA ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the AICPA regarding this credential.


Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®

The Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® designation is owned and issued by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors, Inc.

In order to attain the CSA certification, individuals must complete and submit a Candidate Information Profile; complete a Disclosure Questionnaire; pass the CSA examination (a three-hour multiple choice exam); pass a criminal background check; pass the Roles, Rules and Responsibilities Ethics Exam; and complete and submit the signed Certified Senior Advisors Application for Certification. Subject matter covered on the CSA examination includes: Anthropology and sociology; family and aging; health and wellness; lifestyle aspects; financial aspects; eldercare planning; legal aspects; end-of-life planning; and ethical issues. CSA certification holders must complete 30 credits of continuing education each year. Continuing education credits can be earned through combinations of the following: coursework, attending conferences, attending webinars, volunteer work, publishing articles in the CSA journal, delivering presentation, and re-taking the CSA exam. At least 3 of the CSA continuing education credits must be related to CSA ethics. Annually, CSA certification holders must sign and submit the CSA Disclosure Questionnaire and pay the annual fee.

For more information on the CSA certification process, visit: https://www.csa.us/page/BecomeCSA and for the CSA Certification Handbook visit https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.csa.us/resource/resmgr/Docs/CSA_Certification_Handbook.pdf

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/csa

CSA Certification holders must comply with the CSA Code of Professional Responsibility. CSA Code of Professional Responsibility can be viewed at https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.csa.us/resource/resmgr/docs/csa_code_of_professional_res.pdf

The Society of Certified Senior Advisors has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable certification, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does Adviser Investments review material or information submitted by its employees to the Society of Certified Senior Advisors regarding this certification.

The marks Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) are marks of the Society of Certified Senior Advisors and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the Society of Certified Senior Advisors. The Society of Certified Senior Advisors has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the Society of Certified Senior Advisors and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


CFA Institute Investment Foundations® Certificate Program

The CFA Institute Investment Foundations® certificate is owned and issued by the CFA Institute.

CFA Institute Investment Foundations® certificate program is an online program designed to provide “a clear understanding of the investment industry, roles and responsibilities, and the vital importance of ethical conduct.” To earn the certificate, individuals must complete a curriculum of seven educational modules covering an overview of the industry, ethics and regulation, input and tools, investment instruments, industry structure, serving client needs, and industry controls. After completing the curriculum, individuals must achieve a minimum score on two mock exams. Passing the mock exams then allows the individual to take the final exam, which is 100 multiple-choice questions. Individuals who obtain a passing score on the final exam are awarded the CFA Institute Investment Foundations® Certificate.

For more information on the CFA Institute Investment Foundations® Certificate visit https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/investment-foundations/exam, https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/investment-foundations and https://www.cfainstitute.org/-/media/documents/factsheet/investment_foundations_fact_sheet_2019.ashx

Adviser Investments does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to the CFA Institute regarding this certificate program.

The CFA Institute Investment Foundations® is a mark of the CFA Institute and is used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the CFA Institute. The CFA Institute has not approved or disapproved the use of this term on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of this mark as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use this mark with the permission of CFA Institute and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®)

The Chartered Financial Analyst designation is owned and issued by the CFA Institute.

In order to attain the CFA designation, professionals must pass three examinations, each of which tests specified subject areas. Individuals may study for these exams independently or in a class setting. Prior to taking the first exam, the Level 1 exam, candidates must have either a bachelor’s degree, forty-eight (48) months of full-time work experience related to investment decision-making or be in their final year of a bachelor’s degree program. Each candidate must also receive two letters of recommendation from professionals knowledgeable on the candidate’s work experience and professional character. Each candidate must also be a regular member of the CFA Institute. CFA designation holders are not required to complete continuing education requirements.

CFA Institute members must comply with the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. The CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct can be viewed at https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/ethics-standards/ethics/code-of-ethics-standards-of-conduct-guidance

For more information on the CFA certification process, visit: https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/cfa/charter

FINRA also provides information about this designation, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/cfa

The CFA Institute has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the CFA Institute regarding this certification.

The marks Chartered Financial Analyst® and CFA® are service marks of the CFA Institute (a Virginia Nonstock Corporation) and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the CFA Institute. The CFA Institute has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the CFA Institute and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®)

The Chartered Financial Consultant® and ChFC® designation is owned and issued by The American College of Financial Services®.

It is an 8 course, 14-week online program that covers the financial planning process including the role and responsibilities of a financial consultant. Courses encompass risk management strategies including mitigating risks associated with human capital, insurance, property and wealth management. Other areas of study include income tax strategies and various retirement planning strategies, estate and gift-tax strategies, personal financial planning and behavioral finance. In addition to successfully completing all courses in this program, candidates must meet experience requirements and ethics standards and comply with The American College of Financial Services® Code of Ethics and Procedures. Also, to maintain this designation, individuals must complete 30 continuing education credits every two years. The American College of Financial Services’® Code of Ethics can be accessed at https://www.theamericancollege.edu/about-the-college/community-responsibility/code-of-ethics.

For more information on the ChFC® designation visit https://www.theamericancollege.edu/designations-degrees/ChFC.

FINRA also provides information about this designation, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/chfc.

The American College of Financial Services® has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with the applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process and does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to The American College of Financial Services®.

The Chartered Financial Consultant® designation and ChFC® designation marks are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with The American College of Financial Services®. The American College of Financial Services® has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of the marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of The American College of Financial Services® in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™ (CrPC®)

The Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor designation is owned and issued by the College for Financial Planning®—a Kaplan Company.

In order to attain the CrPC designation, individuals must complete a course of study covering retirement planning during both pre- and post-retirement phases, asset management, estate planning and retirement planning processes (modeling and techniques). All individuals must also pass an end-of-course examination. In order to maintain the CrPC designation, individuals must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.

For more information on the CrPC certification process, visit: https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Requirements

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/crpc

College for Financial Planning members must comply with the College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct. The College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct can be viewed at https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Standards

The College for Financial Planning has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the College of Financial Planning regarding this certification.

The marks Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM and CrCP® are marks of the College for Financial Planning and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the College for Financial Planning. The College for Financial Planning has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the College for Financial Planning and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist (CRPS®)

The Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist designation is owned and issued by the College for Financial Planning®—a Kaplan Company.

In order to attain the CRPS® designation, individuals must complete a course of study covering an introduction to ERISA and the fiduciary standard, employer-funded defined contribution plans, participant-directed retirement plans, retirement plan solutions for small-business owners, working with participants and administering compliant plans. All individuals must also pass an end-of-course examination. In order to maintain the CRPS® designation, individuals must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.

For more information on the CRPS® certification process, visit: https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Requirements

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/crps

College for Financial Planning members must comply with the College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct. The College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct can be viewed at https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Standards

The College for Financial Planning has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process, nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the College of Financial Planning regarding this certification.

The marks Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist® and CRPS® are marks of the College for Financial Planning and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the College for Financial Planning. The College for Financial Planning has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the College for Financial Planning and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Equity Compensation Associate (ECA)

The Equity Compensation Associate (ECA) is the Certified Equity Professional Institute’s designation for individuals in equity compensation. An ECA is qualified in the fundamentals of equity compensation taxation, plan design, law, and very basic accounting, and can address these topics intelligently with equity plan participants.

The ECA exam is the first of the three tests that lead to a Certified Equity Professional (CEP) designation. An ECA is a prerequisite designation to the CEP. Preparing for the exam requires 40-50 hours of study time. The exam focuses on an understanding of the different forms of equity compensation, including the ability to differentiate between types of equity compensation; a working knowledge of equity compensation terminology; the ability to read and interpret plan documents; an understanding of transaction types and securities law requirements; and a basic understanding of equity compensation accounting. ECAs are required to complete 30 hours of Continuing Education every two years.

For more information on the ECA credentialing process, visit https://www.scu.edu/business/cepi/eca/

The Certified Equity Professional Institute has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation’s ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process.


Master Planner Advanced Studies™ (MPAS®)

The Master Planner Advanced Studies (MPAS®) designation is owned and issued by the College for Financial Planning®–a Kaplan Company.

The MPAS is a Master of Science degree “awarded to individuals who complete the College’s Master of Science degree with a major in personal financial planning.” Students pursuing this degree program must complete courses totaling 36 to 43 semester credits in personal financial planning subject matter. Course content includes both research-based study coursework and real-world case studies. Completion of assignments, research, papers and projects are required in order to earn this degree. In order to maintain the MPAS designation, individuals must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years.

For more information on the MPAS certification process, visit: https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Requirements

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/mpas

College for Financial Planning members must comply with the College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct. The College for Financial Planning’s Standards of Professional Conduct can be viewed at https://cffpdesignations.com/Designee/Standards

The College for Financial Planning is a regionally accredited institution of higher learning and offers a Master of Science (MS) degree in financial planning and two Master of Science in Finance (MSF) degrees. The College for Financial Planning has been authorized to issue these degrees by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. For more information on the College for Financial Planning and its accreditation status, visit: https://cffpdesignations.com/About

The College for Financial Planning has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation, ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the College of Financial Planning regarding this certification.

The marks Master Planner Advanced Studies and MPAS® are marks of the College for Financial Planning and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with the College for Financial Planning. The College for Financial Planning has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of the College for Financial Planning and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor

NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor is a membership category offered by the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, Inc.

To become a NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor an individual must:

  • Be a fee-only financial advisor
    • NAPFA “defines Fee-Only financial advisor as one who is compensated solely by the client with neither the advisor nor any related party receiving compensation that is contingent on the purchase or sale of a financial product. Neither Members nor Affiliates may receive commissions, rebates, awards, finder’s fees, bonuses or other forms of compensation from others as a result of a client’s implementation of the individual’s planning recommendations.” https://www.napfa.org/membership/our-standards
  • Be subject to third-party ADV review
  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Currently hold the CFP® certification
  • Submit a sample comprehensive financial plan or participate in a peer-reviewed dialogue with a third-party plan/per reviewer in order to demonstrate competency in comprehensive financial planning
  • Sign the NAPFA Fiduciary Oath, which can be viewed at https://www.napfa.org/mission-and-fiduciary-oath
  • Complete 60 hours of continuing education every two years

For more information on the NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor membership process, visit: https://www.napfa.org/membership/membership-categories/napfa-registered

The NAPFA has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable membership ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process nor does Adviser Investments review any information or material submitted by its employees to the NAPFA regarding this membership.

The NAPFA has not reviewed or approved any descriptions of NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor membership as presented on this webpage.


National Social Security Advisor™ (NSSA®)

The National Social Security Advisor (NSSA® Certificate) certificate program is sponsored by the National Social Security Association.

In order to attain the NSSA® Certificate an individual must complete a one-day in-person or virtual course covering the eight knowledge domains (history and future of social security; benefits calculation; eligibility and benefits calculation; benefit types; planning opportunities; public employees; Medicare; and taxes) or complete 19 separate on-demand modules covering the eight knowledge areas. After completion of the course or modules, individuals must pass a 75-question multiple choice assessment. NSSA® Certificate holders must complete 8 hours of qualifying continuing education every two years.

For more information on the NSSA® Certificate attainment process, visit: https://www.nationalsocialsecurityassociation.com/documents/Candidate-Handbook-4-9-2018.pdf

FINRA also provides information about this certificate program, visit: https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/nssa

Adviser Investments does not review any material or information submitted by its employees to the National Social Security Association regarding this certificate program.

The National Social Security Advisor and NSSA® Certificate are marks of the National Social Security Association and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the National Social Security Association. The National Social Security Association has not passed on or approved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented on this webpage. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of National Social Security Association and in accordance with applicable terms of use.


Personal Financial Specialist (PFS™)

The Personal Financial Specialist (PFSTM) credential is owned and issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), a not-for-profit corporation.

In order to attain the PFS credential, an individual must currently hold a valid, unrevoked CPA certificate, license or permit issued by a state CPA authority; must be a current member of the AICPA; complete 75 hours of personal financial planning education during the five-year period preceding the individual’s application for the PFS credential; have two years (or 3,000 hours of which 1,000 hours may be in tax compliance experience) of full-time business or teaching experience in personal financial planning; and pass either the PFS exam, all four of the AICPA’s personal financial planning certificate exams, the CFP® exam, or pass the ChFC® exam. Personal financial planning education covers the CPA/PFS Body of Knowledge which includes the following topic areas: personal financial planning process; professional responsibilities; fundamental financial planning concepts; estate planning; charitable planning; risk management planning; employee and business owner planning; investment planning; retirement and financial independence planning; elder, special needs and chronic assistance planning; education planning; and special situations. Annually, PFS credential holders must complete 20 hours of continuing education in areas included in the CPA/PFS Body of Knowledge.

For more information on the PFS credentialing process, visit: https://www.aicpa.org/membership/join/pfs-eligibility-requirements.html

The PFS Handbook can be viewed at https://www.aicpa.org/content/dam/aicpa/membership/join/downloadabledocuments/pfs-credential-handbook.pdf

FINRA also provides information about this certification, visit https://www.finra.org/investors/professional-designations/pfs

The AICPA has sole responsibility for determining whether an individual is acting in conformance with applicable designation’s ethical and professional standards. Adviser Investments does not participate in this process nor does it review any material or information submitted by its employees to the AICPA regarding this credential.

The marks Personal Financial Specialist and PFSTM are marks of AICPA and are used herein for informational purposes only. Adviser Investments, LLC is not affiliated with of the AICPA. AICPA has not approved or disapproved the use of these terms on this webpage, nor has it reviewed or approved any descriptions of these marks as presented. Employees of Adviser Investments use these marks with the permission of AICPA and in accordance with applicable terms of use.