A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a person who has been awarded the CFP Designation by the Certified Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Certified Financial Planners must pass an exam that demonstrates a high degree of expertise in financial planning, estate planning, retirement planning, state and federal taxes, investments, insurance, accounting, and other related topics. Becoming a CFP is difficult as the requirements are stringent. Continuing education is required, and Certified Financial Planners are required to follow a strict code of conduct which includes avoiding conflicts of interest.

Certified Financial Planners often become: Business Broker Referral Agents or Real Estate Referral Agents.