Continuing Education Requirements for CFPs in the United States: Bridging the Gap with SMBRI's Online Curriculum

The Need for Continuing Education in Financial Planning

Continuing education is not just a regulatory mandate for CFPs; it’s a cornerstone for professional development and client trust. The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which oversees the certification of financial planners in the United States, stipulates that CFP professionals complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This requirement is crucial for keeping financial advisors abreast of changes in laws, policies, and financial instruments, as well as enhancing their planning skills and knowledge base.



Challenges in Fulfilling CE Requirements

Despite the clear benefits, fulfilling CE requirements can be challenging for many professionals. Factors like time constraints, balancing work and learning, and finding relevant courses that add real value to their practice, are significant hurdles. Traditional in-person CE courses, while beneficial, may not always align with the busy schedules of financial professionals.



SBRI's Online Courses: A Comprehensive Solution

The Small Business Research Institute provides an effective solution to these challenges. SBRI’s online curriculum is specifically designed for CFPs who aim to expand their expertise not only in financial planning but also in entrepreneurial advising. This dual focus is particularly relevant in today’s market where financial advisors are increasingly dealing with clients who own or are starting small businesses.

Meeting CE Requirements

SMBRI’s courses are accredited for Continuing Education credits (coming soon), enabling CFPs to meet their CE obligations conveniently. The flexibility of online learning allows professionals to manage their studies around their work schedules, eliminating the need to sacrifice billable hours or client meetings for classroom attendance.

Earning a Dual Certification

What sets SBRI apart is its unique offer of a dual benefit. By enrolling in these courses, CFPs not only meet their CE requirements but also have the opportunity to earn an additional certification - the Certified Entrepreneurial Advisor (CEA). This certification is tailored to enhance the advisor's skill set in supporting clients who are entrepreneurs, a rapidly growing segment in the client base of many financial planners.



Curriculum Focused on Growth and Client Service

The curriculum at SBRI is designed not just to educate but also to empower CFPs to grow their practice. It covers a wide range of topics from advanced financial planning techniques to understanding the nuances of advising small business owners. This comprehensive approach ensures that CFPs are well-equipped to serve a diverse client base, including those with entrepreneurial ventures.



The Edge in Client Advisory

In an increasingly competitive market, CFPs need to differentiate themselves. The dual certification and the specialized knowledge gained from SBRI’s curriculum provide a significant edge. CFPs who can adeptly handle both personal and business financial planning are in a better position to attract and retain clients, particularly those who are business owners or are planning to venture into entrepreneurship.



Conclusion

Continuing education is an essential aspect of a CFP’s professional journey in the United States. With the dynamic nature of financial markets and regulations, staying updated and expanding one’s skill set is not just a requirement but a necessity. The Small Business Research Institute’s online courses offer a unique and effective way for CFPs to fulfill their CE requirements while simultaneously earning a certification in entrepreneurial advising. This dual approach equips them with the knowledge and skills to grow their practice and become better advisors to their clients, especially in the burgeoning field of small business and entrepreneurial finance. Contact us for our 30-day free trial.