FAQs
Q: Do I have to be an IFP member to become a Certified Financial Planner professional?
A: You will be required to be a member of the IFP in order to hold the CFP Licence Q: What qualifications are required to be eligible to embark on the CFP process?
A: We are currently in the process of reviewing entry requirements to the CFP. For further information and current entry requirements please contact the IFP via email or call us on +44 (0) 117 945 2470 Q: How is the Certified Financial Planner different to the Chartered Financial Planner?
A: Both titles represent the pinnacle of professional qualifications. The Chartered Financial Planner will have passed a number of technical examinations but will not have been tested on their ability to do Financial Planning. The Certified Financial Planner will have reached a high level of technical competence via examinations and then will have been tested on their ability to apply the knowledge as they carry out Financial Planning with clients. This is very much a vocational test of competency. Q: How can I update my CFP profile information on the CFP database?
A: Our new IFP website now has a simple form where you can update your profile information. The form can be found inthe members section of the website under CFP registry form, alternatively click here to be taken to the form. Once completed and submitted you can expect your profile to be updated within two working days. Q: What qualifications do I need to be a member?
A: You don't need any formal or financial qualifications to become a member of the Institute of Financial Planning. All we ask is that you have an interest in the development of Financial Planning as a profession. For details of the different types of membership and the cost of becoming a member, please click on the tab titled IFP and select become a member page. Q: Why should I become a member of the IFP?
A: If you are serious about being a Financial Planner then the IFP is here to help you. We can offer you opportunities to develop your knowledge, skills and understanding in a number of ways from a structured programme of workshops, seminars and examinations through to open invitations to join networking events, share ideas and meet other members of the profession. When joining the IFP you will also have access to a wide range of products, services and benefits including: - Access to an international network of like-minded professionals sharing views and expertise
- Subscription to Financial Planner magazine
- Invitations to attend regional branch meetings
- Regional events and workshops on technical and practice management issues
- Reduced rates for CFP Fast Track and IFP Forum for Success, as well as other courses and events
- Exclusive access to our 'Members' Only' website providing technical resources, practice management tips and much more
- Discounts and other arrangements with select service providers
As a member of the IFP you will join a dynamic group of like-minded individuals who are growing the profession of Financial Planning and seeking to become experts in their field. Click here to go to the 'Become a member' page Q: What is a Fellow? And how do I achieve this status?
A: To become a Fellow of the IFP is one of the most prestigious titles in the Financial Planning world. To reach this level requires successful completion of 12 hours of rigorous Financial Planning examinations. There is a personal paper of 6 hours over 1 day and a similar length business owner's paper on the following day. The rewards, however, are worth the effort as, once successful, you join an elite group of the leading Financial Planners in the UK. Candidates must already be an Associate member of the IFP with a minimum of 5 years' financial related experience. It is also strongly recommended that candidates are already holders of the CFP licence. Being part of the Fellowship allows professionals to contribute further to the development of new planners through mentoring, other initiatives and to receive exclusive invites to the Fellows' conferences and meetings. Q: Where is my nearest IFP branch?
A: We currently have 21 branches across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. All the information about our branches can be found on the members' website under IFP branches. Here you will find a map outlining each branch region. For further information on that branch you can click on the region this will take you to the branch and chairman's details. Q. Do I have to be a member to attend IFP events?
A. Most IFP events are open to members and non members (the IFP run a couple of events that are exclusive to CFP Licensees or Fellows). Member rates are substantially discounted. In the case of the IFP Annual Conference & Exhibition particularly, look out for the combined conference & new member rates. Q. I am a member of one of the IFP's sister organisations can I attend IFP events?
A. Yes, of course. We welcome visitors from our sister organisations and if you can provide proof of your membership, you are then eligible for IFP member rates. Q: When is my annual subscription due?
A: Your personal subscription will be due on the month that you joined. To find out when your membership is due for renewal contact our Membership Co-ordinator on + 44 (0) 117 945 2470. Q: How much is my subscription?
A: Annual Membership of the IFP costs £160.00. Combined Annual Membership and CFP Licence costs £245 (please note if you are CFP Licence holder there are additional requirements to be met before the issue of your certificate). We also have a special rate of £25.00 per annum for members that have retired, those under 25 years old and students. To find out about possible reduced rates for group membership (10 or more from the same company) please contact the Membership Co-ordinator on + 44 (0) 117 945 2470. Q: Can I use the IFP logo?
A: No, sorry you are unable to use the IFP logo on your business literature or advertisements. However, you can use the logo to link through to the IFP from your website, demonstrating your association with us and the code of ethics and professional practice which you have agreed to adhere to. Q: Is there anyone else I can contact with regards to CII exams?
A: Unfortunately we are unable to help with your CII exams unless you are enquiring about the qualifications you need to get through the CII in order to embark on the Certified Financial Planner process. In this case, if you are part way through or starting your advanced papers/diploma in Financial Planning and want to check you are ticking the correct boxes then please do call our education department on + 44 (0) 117 945 2470. Q: Who should I contact to update my membership details?
A: There are two ways you can update your details with the IFP. Option 1 is to use the simple form on the member's only site. This can be found in the top right hand corner next to your name, simply fill in the details you would like updated and submit. Option 2 is to give the IFP a call on + 44 (0) 117 945 2470 our office is open 8am-5pm someone will be pleased to help you. |
are certification marks owned outside the U.S. by Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. Institute of Financial Planning is the marks licensing authority for the CFP marks in the United Kingdom, through agreement with FPSB.