re: Is anyone here a CFP?

What type of "practice" are you starting? Do you plan to do actual "Financial Planning" for clients or just investments? Will you be working with other CFPs?

Will you be starting an Independent firm from the ground up? Working for a large bank or wire house with an established client base?

You need to take a serious look at the services you plan to provide to your potential clients and go from there...Will the CFP Designation immediately increase your income? Probably not, unless you work for a larger firm that will increase your salary/payout due to your credentials.

If you plan to work with HNW clients, the CFP is a must. If you plan to only do investment work for clients in a bank setting, maybe the CFP is not necessary for you. But either way, the CFP designation will set you apart and add credibility to your name.

If you do plan to pursue the designation, be committed and see it through to the end. I am a CFP and I feel that it was worth the effort.