Insurance
The insurance industry has evolved to include a bigger picture view of individual’s financial position. Many insurance professionals will also be licensed to provide investment advice or planning, or should be able to work closely with your investment advisor, accountant and estate planning attorney to make sure the pieces of your financial plan fit together.

Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) – The Chartered Financial Consultant, or ChFC, is a designation for the life insurance industry from the American College. ChFC’s must have 3
years of experience and pass an exam covering personal financial planning topics.

Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) – The Chartered Life Underwriter, or CLU, is a designation
for the life insurance industry from the American College. CLU’s must have completed courses
in several personal financial planning topics.

Accounting
Some accountants have linked themselves to the investment world by either partnering with investment and insurance advisors, or by starting to provide financial advice on their own.

Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) – This designation is provided by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants to CPAs who have passed a personal financial planning exam and have experience and continuing education in personal financial planning.

Conclusion
Professional certifications and designations can help you determine how closely a
professional’s training matches up with your specific needs. It is one tool among many to help you find the perfect financial planner, investment advisor, or insurance professional for you.