--- title: How Much Does a Certified Financial Planner Cost? description: These experts have the knowledge and understanding to build a solid financial strategy that fits various goals and objectives. But these professionals don’t share their time, effort, and know-how with clients for free. But how much does a CPF® cost? It depends. image: https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/cfp-1341347262.jpg --- [![Realized 1031 Exchange Marketplace](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black.png?width=240&height=80&name=Realized-Logo-Black.png "Realized 1031 Logo") ](https://www.realized1031.com/) - [Wealth Management Gap](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) [Register](https://www.realized1031.com/marketplace) [Log In](https://www.realized1031.com/login) - Better Business Bureau Rating: **A+** - [FINRA BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333) - [Call](tel:1-877-797-1031) **(877) 797-1031** # How Much Does a Certified Financial Planner Cost? Posted Aug 1, 2022 ![cfp-1341347262](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/cfp-1341347262.jpg?width=750&height=392&name=cfp-1341347262.jpg) Strategic money management isn’t a strong suit for many people. They don’t have the time, knowledge, or interest to dig deep into such planning. This is where a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ can step in to help. These experts have the knowledge and understanding to build a solid financial strategy that fits various goals and objectives.  But these professionals don’t share their time, effort, and know-how with clients for free. But how much does a CPF® cost? It depends.  ### Defining the Planner Financial planners are in business [to help their clients reach long-term financial goals](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/financial-advisor/what-is-a-cfp/) through strategic planning. While financial planners are of enormous assistance in helping with retirement objectives, they also work with clients on other issues including budget creation, paying off debt, or saving up to buy a house.  Not all financial planners are certified. Those who are earn the CPF® designation from [the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards](https://www.cfp.net/about-cfp-board), a non-profit organization that implements and enforces specific standards when it comes to personal financial planning.   The CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ [is required to meet the “four E’s”](https://financialplanning.tamu.edu/about/become-a-cfp-pro/) of education, examination, experience, and ethics; this requires years of study and rigorous coursework. Only after the coursework and exams are passed can a financial planner use the CPF® after his or her name.   ### How They Make Money CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ [offer different fee structures](https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/financial-planner-cost). The most common are listed below.  **Commission**  Commission-based CFPs® earn their money by selling financial products to their clients, such as securities, mutual funds, annuities, and insurance policies. They receive a certain percentage from the sale of these products or could charge a commission on the sale or acquisition of financial instruments.  Commission-earning CFPs® have been given a bad rap. It’s important to understand that this process, in and of itself, isn’t inherently bad. It becomes a problem if the CFP® foists an unneeded product on a client to boost sales and commission.  **AUM Percentage**  Some CFPs® earn their money based on a client portfolio’s value, or [assets under management (AUM)](https://www.realized1031.com/glossary/assets-under-management). Under this system, the CFP® charges a percentage based on the amount and value of the assets they manage. While there is no “in-stone” fee for this, the average [can range from 0.59% to $1.18%](https://www.advisoryhq.com/articles/financial-advisor-fees-wealth-managers-planners-and-fee-only-advisors/) of the portfolio’s value. Under this system, the CPF® has a vested interest in growing the portfolio’s value.  **Fee-Only**  A fee-only CFP® charges a set per-hour cost, rather than by commission or percentage. Again, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to specific fees. Average fees vary, based on geographic location, but the typical range [can be between $120 to $300 per hour](https://www.advisoryhq.com/articles/financial-advisor-fees-wealth-managers-planners-and-fee-only-advisors/).  ### What Is the Best Fee Structure? Determining which CPF® to work with (and resulting costs) depends on the need. An investor planning to work on their own might need the CFP® only for help in setting up accounts. In this case, a fee-only arrangement might work. For an investor wishing a long-term relationship with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, an AUM percentage could be the best option. Those who are happy to accept product recommendations could do well with a CPF® that operates on commission.  As indicated, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to paying the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. What’s important is that the CPF® keeps client goals front and center and fulfills his/her fiduciary duty toward the client. This material is for general information and educational purposes only. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not  purport to be complete and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions. It should also not be construed as advice, meeting the particular investment needs of any investor. There is no guarantee that the investment objectives of any particular program will be achieved. The actual amount and timing of distributions paid by programs is not guaranteed and may vary. There is no guarantee that investors will receive distributions or a return of their capital. These programs can give no assurance that they will be able to pay or maintain distributions, or that distributions will increase over time. Realized does not provide tax or legal advice. This material is not a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified professional for your individual situation.  Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth [![Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg?width=250&height=250&name=IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg "Learn new ways to use real ...") ](https://www.realized1031.com/blog/how-much-does-a-certified-financial-planner-cost#blogform) Download eBook ---   --- ### Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth ![Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-550.jpg?width=550&height=650&name=IPWM-eBook-550.jpg) Learn new ways to use real estate to pursue your wealth goals. By providing your email and phone number, you are opting to receive communications from Realized. If you receive a text message and choose to stop receiving further messages, reply STOP to immediately unsubscribe. Msg & Data rates may apply. To manage receiving emails from Realized visit the Manage Preferences link in any email received. Search ### [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Wealth Management](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Scenarios](https://www.realized1031.com/scenarios) - [Private Client Program](https://www.realized1031.com/private-client) - [Realized Exchange Services](https://www.realized1031.com/realized-exchange-services) ### [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [The Team](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [FAQ](https://www.realized1031.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Testimonials](https://www.realized1031.com/testimonials) - [Press](https://www.realized1031.com/press) - [Careers](https://www.realized1031.com/careers) ### [Partners](https://www.realized1031.com/partners) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Broker Dealers](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/broker-dealers) - [Real Estate Agents](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/real-estate-agents) - [Certified Public Accountants](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/certified-public-accountants) ### [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - #### Learn - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) - [Glossary of Terms](https://www.realized1031.com/glossary) - [Capital Gains Tax Rates](https://www.realized1031.com/capital-gains-tax-rate) - #### Watch - [Video Library](https://www.realized1031.com/videos) - [Webinar Archive](https://www.realized1031.com/webinars) - #### Read - [Delaware Statutory Trust](https://www.realized1031.com/delaware-statutory-trust) - [Tenants-In-Common](https://www.realized1031.com/tenants-in-common-tic) - [1031 Exchange](https://www.realized1031.com/1031-exchange) - [Qualified Intermediary](https://www.realized1031.com/qualified-intermediary) - [Qualified Opportunity Zones](https://www.realized1031.com/opportunity-zones) #### Realized - 500 W 13th Street Austin, TX 78701 - (877) 797-1031 ##### [Contact Us](https://www.realized1031.com/contact-us) - [![Realized on Facebook](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-facebook-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-facebook-whiterev.png)](https://www.facebook.com/Realized/) - [![Realized on LinkedIn](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-linkedin-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-linkedin-whiterev.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/realized/) - [![Realized on YouTube](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-youtube-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-youtube-whiterev.png)](https://www.youtube.com/c/Realized1031?sub_confirmation=1) - [![Realized Holdings, Inc. BBB Business Review](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/bbb/RZH2-bbb-seal.png?width=40&height=65&name=RZH2-bbb-seal.png)](http://www.bbb.org/central-texas/business-reviews/real-estate-investors/realized-holdings-llc-in-austin-tx-1000112948/#bbbonlineclick) - [![FEA Logo](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/fea/RZH2-fea-logo.png?width=82&height=65&name=RZH2-fea-logo.png "FEA Logo")](https://www.1031.org) SECURITIES DISCLOSURE Realized1031.com is a website operated by Realized Technologies, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. (“Realized Holdings”). Securities and/or Investment Advisory Services may be offered through Registered Representatives or Investment Advisor Representatives of Realized Financial, Inc. ("Realized"), a broker/dealer, member [FINRA](https://www.finra.org)/[SIPC](https://www.sipc.org/), and registered investment adviser. Realized is a subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. ("Realized Holdings"). Check the background of this firm on [FINRA's BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333). Hypothetical example(s) are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to represent the past or future performance of any specific investment. Investing in alternative assets involves higher risks than traditional investments and is suitable only for sophisticated investors. Alternative investments are often sold by prospectus that discloses all risks, fees, and expenses. They are not tax efficient and an investor should consult with his/her tax advisor prior to investing. Alternative investments have higher fees than traditional investments and they may also be highly leveraged and engage in speculative investment techniques, which can magnify the potential for investment loss or gain and should not be deemed a complete investment program. The value of the investment may fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they invested. This site is published for residents of the United States who are accredited investors only. Registered Representatives and Investment Advisor Representatives may only conduct business with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed until appropriate registration is obtained or exemption from registration is determined. Not all of services referenced on this site are available in every state and through every representative listed. For additional information, please contact the Realized Compliance department at 512-472-7171 or info@realized1031.com. - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.realized1031.com/terms-and-conditions) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.realized1031.com/privacy-policy) - [Form CRS](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/FormCRS.pdf) - [ADV 2A](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/ADV2A.pdf) - [Reg BI Disclosures](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/RegBI.pdf) -   © 2026 Realized Holdings, Inc. ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org/", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Strategic money management isn’t a strong suit for many people. They don’t have the time, knowledge, or interest to dig deep into such planning. This is where a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ can step in to help. These experts have the knowledge and understanding to build a solid financial strategy that fits various goals and objectives. But these professionals don’t share their time, effort, and know-how with clients for free. But how much does a CPF® cost? It depends. Defining the Planner Financial planners are in business to help their clients reach long-term financial goals through strategic planning. While financial planners are of enormous assistance in helping with retirement objectives, they also work with clients on other issues including budget creation, paying off debt, or saving up to buy a house. Not all financial planners are certified. Those who are earn the CPF® designation from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, a non-profit organization that implements and enforces specific standards when it comes to personal financial planning. The CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ is required to meet the “four E’s” of education, examination, experience, and ethics; this requires years of study and rigorous coursework. Only after the coursework and exams are passed can a financial planner use the CPF® after his or her name. How They Make Money CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ offer different fee structures. The most common are listed below. Commission Commission-based CFPs® earn their money by selling financial products to their clients, such as securities, mutual funds, annuities, and insurance policies. They receive a certain percentage from the sale of these products or could charge a commission on the sale or acquisition of financial instruments. Commission-earning CFPs® have been given a bad rap. It’s important to understand that this process, in and of itself, isn’t inherently bad. It becomes a problem if the CFP® foists an unneeded product on a client to boost sales and commission. AUM Percentage Some CFPs® earn their money based on a client portfolio’s value, or assets under management (AUM). Under this system, the CFP® charges a percentage based on the amount and value of the assets they manage. While there is no “in-stone” fee for this, the average can range from 0.59% to $1.18% of the portfolio’s value. Under this system, the CPF® has a vested interest in growing the portfolio’s value. Fee-Only A fee-only CFP® charges a set per-hour cost, rather than by commission or percentage. Again, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to specific fees. Average fees vary, based on geographic location, but the typical range can be between $120 to $300 per hour. What Is the Best Fee Structure? Determining which CPF® to work with (and resulting costs) depends on the need. An investor planning to work on their own might need the CFP® only for help in setting up accounts. In this case, a fee-only arrangement might work. For an investor wishing a long-term relationship with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, an AUM percentage could be the best option. Those who are happy to accept product recommendations could do well with a CPF® that operates on commission. As indicated, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to paying the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. What’s important is that the CPF® keeps client goals front and center and fulfills his/her fiduciary duty toward the client. This material is for general information and educational purposes only. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions. It should also not be construed as advice, meeting the particular investment needs of any investor. There is no guarantee that the investment objectives of any particular program will be achieved. The actual amount and timing of distributions paid by programs is not guaranteed and may vary. There is no guarantee that investors will receive distributions or a return of their capital. These programs can give no assurance that they will be able to pay or maintain distributions, or that distributions will increase over time. Realized does not provide tax or legal advice. This material is not a substitute for seeking the advice of a qualified professional for your individual situation.", "articleSection" : [ "Financial Planning" ], "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "email" : "marketing@realized1031.com", "image" : "", "name" : "The Realized Team", "url" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/author/the-realized-team" }, "dateModified" : "2022-08-01T12:00:00+0000", "datePublished" : "2022-08-01T12:00:00+0000", "description" : "These experts have the knowledge and understanding to build a solid financial strategy that fits various goals and objectives. But these professionals don’t share their time, effort, and know-how with clients for free. But how much does a CPF® cost? It depends. ", "headline" : "How Much Does a Certified Financial Planner Cost?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 392, "url" : "https://733513.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/733513/cfp-1341347262.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/how-much-does-a-certified-financial-planner-cost", "name" : "How Much Does a Certified Financial Planner Cost?", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "USA", "addressLocality" : "Austin", "addressRegion" : "TX", "postalCode" : "78701", "streetAddress" : "500 W 13th Street " }, "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 60, "url" : "http://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black-No-Margin-296x60-AMP.png", "width" : 296 }, "name" : "Realized" }, "thumbnailUrl" : "https://733513.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/733513/cfp-1341347262.jpg" } ```