Is anyone here a CFP?

I don't technically have it as I haven't met the experience requirement. I have satisfied the education and passed the exam.

Just passing the exam opened doors that would have otherwise not been opened. I was trying to get into the business and did not want to go the sales route. I was able to get on with a very reputable RIA because of passing the exam.

ROI for me was off the charts. It cost me about 1/20th of what a master's would cost and gave me a very valuable credential.

The downside is the exam was no joke! If took a solid 3-4 months of studying to pass, and that's after fulfilling the about 1 year of classes. I had no prior planning experience so it might not be as difficult to someone familiar with various planning topics.

Overall, I would highly recommend if just starting out. If you're trying to boost sales, I'm not so sure.

I have it. I had an semi-established practice (2 years after breaking away and going Indy). It helped but wasn't a game changer for ROI. Provides confidence for sure, instant credibility, and literally every article your potential clients are reading say to look for a CFP.

I'd do it just to get better at your craft. If you intend to be here a while, you probably should to show everyone else you're serious.

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.

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I'm an employee in an established independent RIA practice with a clientele of 90% retirees and I'd be the only one with the credential. I'm wondering if it would be a good leverage for more money or to leave for greener pastures.

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Not one CFP in the entire practice? You should definitely go for it!