- Understanding IRC Section 212 and Advisor Expense Deductions
You may assist clients with tax planning, but it’s also important to know how to handle your business’s tax filing. Internal Revenue Code Section 212 historically allowed individuals to deduct certain expenses related to income production, investment property and tax matters. Claiming deductions can help you reduce your taxable income for the year, though it’s… read more…
- 7 Books That Can Help Prepare You to Take the CFP® Exam
Becoming a Certified Financial Planner™ requires passing the CFP® exam, which is a significant milestone in the certification process. While enrolling in a CFP® exam prep course can provide structured guidance, supplementing your studies with well-regarded financial planning books can deepen your understanding of key concepts and real-world applications. Reading widely can also help reinforce… read more…
- When Can You Take the Series 65 Exam?
The Series 65 exam or Uniform Investment Adviser Examination is required if you plan to register with state securities agencies as an investment advisor representation. Series 65 exam dates are offered by appointment, as are exams for other FINRA licenses. If you’re planning to obtain a Series 65 license, you’ll need to know when you… read more…
- What Is a Financial Solutions Advisor?
A financial solutions advisor helps clients, often affluent or high-net-worth investors, build their investment portfolios. These advisors work in a bank or wealth management setting as part of a larger financial services team, though some financial solutions advisors work independently. If you’re interested in this career path, knowing more about how this type of role… read more…
- What Are Breakaway Advisors?
A breakaway advisor is a financial professional who leaves a traditional wirehouse or broker-dealer for an independent advisory practice. Every year, advisors leave or “break away” from large brokerage firms whose businesses may be built around selling financial products and services for commissions. These advisors then join or establish their own registered investment advisor (RIA)… read more…
- What Is a Credit Risk Certification (CRC)?
The credit risk certification (CRC) is a professional credential that demonstrates specialized expertise in credit risk management and analysis. ProSight Financial Association, the organization that administers the credential, describes it as the only recognized professional designation specifically for credit and lending professionals. Financial advisors may consider obtaining a CRC credential if they’re interested in pursuing… read more…
- What Is Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI)?
In 2019, the Securities and Exchange Commission adopted Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI), redefining standards of professional conduct for broker-dealers and associated persons. The standard, which falls under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, requires broker-dealers to follow the best interests of their clients when recommending securities or investment strategies that involve securities. Adhering to… read more…
- How to Manage High-Net-Worth Clients to Keep Them
Working with high-net-worth clients can present some unique opportunities if you’re able to establish long-term relationships, generate more referrals and increase business revenue. Managing these types of clients requires specialized knowledge and understanding of the needs and concerns that wealthy investors often have. Knowing what to expect can help you balance serving your high-net-worth clients… read more…
- 60 Questions Financial Advisors Ask
When you’re embarking on a new client relationship or meeting with a prospect for the first time, setting the right tone matters. That includes getting to know their needs and expectations better by asking questions and absorbing what they have to say. In addition to reading reviews, 73% of respondents say they want to talk… read more…
- How to Get an Entry-Level Financial Planning Job
Financial planning can open the door to a wide range of jobs, including financial advisor, investment analyst, wealth manager, retirement planner and tax advisor, among others. If you’re just starting out, the range of positions you qualify for may be smaller, but everyone has to start somewhere. Here’s a round up of entry-level financial planning… read more…
- Guide to Strategic Portfolio Management for Your Advisory Firm
Building a successful—and sustainable—business often begins with developing systems that allow you to operate as efficiently as possible. Strategic portfolio management (SPM) encompasses various processes that financial advisors and other organizations can use to ensure that their actions align with their goals. Pursuing this type of approach can facilitate growth and allow you to better… read more…
- What Are Reportable Securities for Financial Advisors?
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) imposes certain rules on registered investment advisors governing ethical behavior. Rule 204A-1 of the Advisers Act outlines minimum standards for establishing an advisor code of ethics, including the treatment of reportable securities. Meeting these standards can help advisors remain compliant with federal regulations. Add new clients and AUM at… read more…
- 10 Personal Finance Influencers to Follow If You’re an Advisor
Personal finance influencers are becoming increasingly popular on social media as people seek out straightforward, practical financial advice. While many influencers cater to a consumer-facing audience, some offer tips and strategies that are directed toward financial services professionals. Getting to know some of the most impactful personal finance influencers can be a terrific way to… read more…
- How to Analyze Market Sentiment Indicators to Grow Client Portfolios
A market sentiment indicator provides insights into the overall mood or attitude that investors have toward the financial markets, helping advisors gauge whether sentiment is bullish, bearish or neutral. These tools analyze data such as trading volumes, price movements and investor surveys to reflect the collective behavior of market participants. By aligning investment strategies with… read more…
- How to Find Compliance Solutions for Financial Advisors
Compliance is a critical, but time-consuming aspect of running a successful advisory practice. Advisors who would prefer to dedicate more hours to growing their businesses may look to compliance solutions to ensure adherence to financial regulations. Software, outsourcing and custodial support can further that goal. These options can complement one another. A firm may use… read more…
- How to Find a Financial Planning Certificate Program
The distinction between financial advisors can sometimes hinge on the depth of their knowledge and the trust they inspire. Financial planning certifications may indicate an advisor’s commitment, expertise and adherence to ethical standards, which can be reassuring for current and prospective clients. Professionals who pursue certification enhance their reputation and demonstrate a mastery of complex… read more…
- How Much You Could Make If You Earn a CRPC
Getting a chartered retirement planning counselor (CRPC) designation can increase a financial advisor’s earning potential without the need to invest a lot of time, energy and money. People with this financial professional certification report earning an average of 9% more after qualifying for the designation, according to the organization that provides training for CRPC applicants.… read more…
- What Are the IAR Continuing Education Requirements?
Investment adviser representatives (IARs) who provide financial advice to clients now have to complete annual continuing education in a growing number of states. As of early 2026, 22 states plus Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands have implemented rules requiring IARs to perform 12 hours per year of continuing education focused on ethics, products… read more…
- CLU vs. ChFC for Financial Advisors
Earning professional certifications can enhance your credibility and help you attract new clients. The chartered life underwriter (CLU) designation is geared toward life insurance specialists and focuses on insurance law, products, planning and business applications within the life insurance field. The chartered financial consultant (ChFC) designation, by contrast, is designed for financial planners and covers… read more…
- Where to Find Financial Planner Courses Online
A Certified Financial Planner™ must meet continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain their certification. If you’re interested in completing financial planner courses online there are plenty of options to choose from. When comparing financial planning classes, it’s helpful to consider the format, the time commitment required, and what you’ll pay. SmartAsset’s Advisor Marketing Platform can… read more…
- How Advisors Can Run an Effective Discovery Meeting
Scheduling a discovery meeting with a prospective or new client is an opportunity to get to know them a little and establish the ground rules for your interactions going forward. Setting an agenda for the meeting can ensure that you’re covering the most important topics. You should also be prepared to ask the client some… read more…
- Guide to Code of Ethics for Financial Advisors
A financial advisor code of ethics is a written set of standards that governs how an advisor treats clients, and the rules depend on how you’re registered. SEC-registered investment advisors are required to adopt a written code and follow the fiduciary standard. CFP® professionals are also fiduciaries, but they additionally must adhere to the CFP… read more…
- How to Find a Remote Job as a CFP® Financial Advisor
Earning the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation can expand your career options, including opportunities for remote work. While some firms prefer advisors to work on-site, others offer flexible arrangements that allow CFP® professionals to work virtually, either part time or full time. If you’re considering remote CFP® roles, it’s helpful to understand where to find… read more…
- Choosing Financial Advisor vs. Financial Analyst for Your Career
When considering a career path in the financial sector, two common options often come to mind: becoming a financial advisor or a financial analyst. Both roles offer unique opportunities and challenges, appealing to individuals with different skill sets and career aspirations. While financial advisors primarily focus on providing personalized financial guidance to individuals and families,… read more…
- Understanding Common Financial Advisor Regulations
Financial advisors operate in one of the most highly regulated corners of the financial industry, and for good reason. Clients trust advisors with their savings, retirement plans and long-term goals, often sharing deeply personal financial details along the way. Understanding the rules that govern financial advice isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about building credibility… read more…