That’s not to say a person who isn’t a CFP isn’t expected to uphold strict ethical and fiduciary standards, especially if they are actively managing clients’ financial accounts. Many financial advisors who aren’t CFPs have other certifications, as well as degrees in finance and business, that make them well-versed in matters related to retirement, investing, taxes, and more.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, known as FINRA, provides a comprehensive list of professional designations that will help you decode most acronyms you may see at the end of a financial advisor’s name. The list explains the required education and certification, who regulates someone with that designation, and how to make a complaint or check disciplinary actions.