How to Become a Certified Financial Planner: A Success Guide with Zacc Call
Zacc Call
President and Certified Financial Planner at Capita Financial Network
Quick Start Guide: The Path to CFP Certification
How do you become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)? To earn the CFP® designation, you must complete the "Four Es": Education (a bachelor’s degree and specific financial coursework), Exam (a rigorous 6-hour test), Experience (6,000 hours of professional or 4,000 hours of apprenticeship work), and Ethics (adhering to a fiduciary standard). According to Zacc Call, successful planners combine technical expertise with deep empathy to help families navigate complex financial landscapes.
The Reality of Modern Wealth Management
It’s 10% math and 90% psychology. Zacc Call emphasizes that being a CFP is less about being a "human calculator" and more about being a trusted advisor during life’s biggest transitions.
The "When" Factor: One of the biggest takeaways from the episode is the "surprising truth" about when to start working with an advisor—it's often much earlier than people think.
Building Trust: In an industry saturated with "finance influencers," Zacc explains that the CFP credential is the "Gold Standard" because it legally obligates you to act as a fiduciary—putting the client's interests above your own.
Beyond the 20s: Zacc discusses the critical transition from "just making money" in your early career to "building wealth" and getting paid what you’re worth in your 30s and 40s.
The Roadmap: How to Break Into the Industry
If you want to follow in Zacc’s footsteps, here is the professional progression:
Academic Foundation: Obtain a bachelor’s degree (any field is fine, but Finance or Accounting provides a head start).
Coursework & Capstone: Complete a CFP Board-registered program, finishing with a capstone project that proves you can build a comprehensive financial plan.
The Exam: Pass the 170-question exam that covers everything from tax planning to estate law and insurance.
The Experience Window: Gain your 6,000 hours by working at a firm like Capita Financial Network, starting as an Analyst or Associate Advisor.
AI and the Future of Financial Planning
Will AI replace financial advisors? Zacc offers a visionary take on the next 20 years. While AI is revolutionizing data analysis and portfolio rebalancing, it cannot replace:
Emotional Intelligence: AI can’t hold a client's hand during a market crash.
Complex Nuance: Every family has unique dynamics (inheritance, family business, philanthropy) that require human intuition.
Holistic Strategy: Integrating taxes, retirement, and legacy into one cohesive narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions: CFP Career Path
Q: Is the CFP exam harder than the Bar or CPA exam?
A: It is widely considered one of the most difficult professional exams due to the breadth of topics. The first-time pass rate often hovers around 67%.
Q: What is the average salary for a Certified Financial Planner?
A: While entry-level roles start around $60k–$80k, lead advisors and partners in successful firms can earn well into the mid-to-high six figures.
Q: Can I become a financial planner without a finance degree?
A: Yes! You just need a bachelor's degree in any subject, provided you complete the required CFP Board coursework afterward.
Watch the Full Interview with Zacc Call
To hear Zacc break down the "Prosperity Projects" and his advice for the next generation of advisors, watch the full episode on the Where To Get Started channel:
Watch on YouTube: Watch the Full Episode!
Visit Zacc’s Site: The Financial Call
Follow W2GS on Instagram: @wheretogetstarted
