(NewsUSA) - Military veterans can take on a new mission as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^™ professional. Your new objective: Safeguard and advance the financial interests of everyday Americans. By earning CFP^® certification, you’ll gain the financial strategies and tactics to fortify their finances. As a CFP^® professional, your expert financial knowledge will also build on the personal insight you have into the unique financial challenges of the veteran community as well as servicemembers still on active duty.

Becoming a CFP^® professional not only allows you to help others, it also means joining a fast-growing industry that pays well and is dedicated to creating inclusive environments for people from diverse backgrounds.

Securing Your Own Financial Future

As you head into civilian life, you might be shifting your focus to securing your financial future. One way to do that is by becoming a CFP^® professional, where you can earn a six-figure income and the financial independence that goes with it.

The average CFP^® professional’s income, based on their years of experience, is high and only grows with time. The average annual income for a CFP^® professional with fewer than nine years of experience is $145,000. At over 15 years of experience, it rises to $297,000.

Earning Your Stripes as a CFP^® Professional

CFP^® certification is the standard for competent and ethical financial planning. As in all professions, credentials are important — and in the financial services industry, CFP^® certification stands out. Those letters signal to clients and employers that you’re knowledgeable and trustworthy. Earning your CFP^® certification provides many advantages, including the following:

• Competitive Edge: 83% of CFP^® professionals say they have a competitive edge over other financial advisors.
• Trust: 90% of consumers are more confident working with an advisor who has a financial planning designation.
• Success: 86% of CFP^® professionals say that certification has had a positive impact on their career satisfaction.

It all begins with education and training, just as in the military. Financial aid is available. You’re probably already eligible for GI Bill benefits, which you can use to meet CFP Board’s education requirements, starting you on the journey toward CFP^® certification.

Making the Transition

Nobody should sugarcoat the major changes and challenges veterans face when they look for a new civilian job. But don’t discount how many transferable skills you already have, such as analytical skills or project management, that could apply in a new career as a CFP^® professional.

And you won’t be making the transition alone — CFP Board provides tools and resources for you to begin the journey to a successful career as a CFP^® professional, including connecting you with other candidates and mentors. Get started today.