Types of Financial Planners

There are differences between QAFP^® certification and CFP^® certification. Understanding them can help you choose a professional financial planner to best suit your needs.

QAFP Professionals

If you need help managing cash flow, creating a budget or tackling credit card debt, a QAFP professional may be right for you
They offer financial advice for today’s speed of life
They have the knowledge, skills, experience and ethics to provide financial planning strategies and solutions for clients who are in the process of building their financial well-being
They must complete a comprehensive education program focused on technical and professional skills, pass a national exam, have a post-secondary diploma and demonstrate one year of qualifying work experience

CFP Professionals

If you are navigating a complicated financial landscape that could range from cross-border taxation issues, managing a large estate or small business or estate planning for a blended family, a CFP professional can help
They work with their clients to build a financial plan so that they can Live Life Confidently™
They have the knowledge, skills, experience and ethics to understand their clients’ situations at a complex level
They must complete a rigorous education program, pass a national exam, demonstrate three years of qualifying work experience and meet standards of competence and professionalism

Both QAFP professionals and CFP professionals must adhere to the FP Canada Standards Council™ Standards of Professional Responsibility.
The standards include a Code of Ethics, Rules of Conduct, Fitness Standards and Practice Standards.
Learn about the FP Canada Standards Council →

What Works for You?

What you need from your professional financial planner is often very different from what someone else needs. Here are some questions and considerations to ask yourself – and your potential planner – as you chart your course to financial well-being.

Questions to Ask Your Planner →

Preparing for Your First Meeting →

Get to Know a Planner

Working with a CFP professional or QAFP professional who you trust will help you succeed, no matter your age, income, or background. Get to know just a few of the professional financial planners working across Canada below!