Q: What is the Certified Financial Planner(R) designation?
A: This designation is earned by individuals who complete educational coursework, a comprehensive examination, subscribe to a Code of Ethics, and commit to continuing education (30 hours every two years-including an ethics course). A minimum of three years experience in the field is required before earning the right to use the designation marks. The governing board for CFP Certificants is the Certified Financial Planner(R) Board of Standards. Dana completed her most recent Ethics Continuing Education in 2015. - Click here to learn more about financial services credentials -
Q: What is financial education (also known as financial literacy)?
A: Financial Literacy is the term commonly used to describe a body of knowledge in the area of consumer finance, savings, investing and managing credit. Various definitions are used. Nationally it has been defined as the following:
"Personal financial literacy is the ability to read, analyze, manage, and communicate about the personal financial conditions that affect material well- being."
"It includes the ability to discern financial choices, discuss money and financial issues without (or despite) discomfort, plan for the future, and respond competently to life events that affect everyday financial decisions, including events in the general economy."
Q: What is a fee-only financial planner?
A: In this profession, we can be distinguished by the way we charge for our services. Here is official information from our regulatory bodyon the different ways that financial advisors, financial planners and certified financial planners are compensated.
I am compensated on an hourly basis, the initial one on the list from FINRA. I charge an hourly fee and that my sole compensation from my clients. Since I do not sell investment or insurance products, there are no commissions, 12(b)1 fees (trailing fees from mutual fund companies), nor bonuses for any products sold. Twight Financial Education provides guidance without product sales. Identifying and implementing client goals and priorities are my primary concern.