If you’re looking for someone that specifically helps with retirement planning, consider working with a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®). This designation sets these financial experts apart from the rest in that it prepares professionals to help clients prepare for retirement. Like many other financial certifications, candidates need to meet specific requirements, go through training, and take an exam before they earn the CRPC® designation.

Here are some things to know about working with a CRPC™ and how they can help you.

What does a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®) do, exactly?

Let’s start off by talking about the CRPC® certification itself. A CRPC® is a professional financial certification offered by the College for Financial Planning (CFFP). Those who have this certification have studied topics like asset management, post-retirement needs, estate planning, and other key areas people may look for when planning for retirement.

Training and certification for CRPC®

CRPC™ candidates have to complete specific course materials through the College for Financial Planning. These topics include managing and maximizing Social Security benefits, looking at healthcare retirement options, and identifying other income streams for retirement, among other key topics.

After becoming well versed in the course material, CRPC® hopefuls have to pass a proctored exam by answering at least 70% of the questions correctly. If they pass, they can apply for authorization to use the designation.

Once the CRPC designation is earned, one must renew the certification every two years. This is done by logging 16 hours of ongoing education and reaffirming compliance.