SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) One common misconception about financial planners is that their role is solely to help wealthy people create more wealth. In reality, financial planners help all kinds of people in all kinds of circumstances.

Here are a few ways that CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^® professionals are there for individuals and families in good times and bad.

Pursuing life goals: As a CFP^® professional, you will have the training and knowledge required to help people create a holistic financial plan to reach their goals — such as buying a home, financing an education or planning for retirement — on their own timeline.

During a medical crisis: A medical crisis introduces new, sometimes astronomical bills into the equation while often hindering one’s ability to earn income. That’s where you can make all the difference as a financial planner. Studies have shown that financial intervention in these circumstances doesn’t just help families meet their expenses, it can also improve patient outcomes.

When navigating government benefits: Navigating government benefits can be tricky, whether an individual is living with a disability or transitioning from military to civilian life. From accessing benefits to maintaining one’s eligibility for them, as a CFP^® professional, you can help cut through the red tape.

After the loss of a loved one: The loss of a partner or parent is not only emotionally devastating, it can create financial strife among those left behind, particularly if the deceased was the primary breadwinner or the one responsible for managing financial logistics. A CFP^® professional can provide financial education to the surviving family members, give them a snapshot of their financial situation, assist with managing their assets and help them pave a new path forward.

During unexpected circumstances:Recessions, job loss, natural disasters…the list of unexpected circumstances that can impact a family’s financial future goes on and on. CFP^® professionals can partner with individuals to create a financial plan that safeguards their wealth and provides peace of mind.

When unable to pay for services: Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of a financial planning career is the opportunity to provide pro bono services to clients in need. Credit and budget management, as well as education on topics like loans and life insurance, can provide struggling individuals with economic self-sufficiency. Industry-wide efforts, such as CFP Board’s 100K Pro Bono Challenge, which encourages CFP^® professionals to collectively provide 100,000 more pro bono hours than last year, are expanding access to ethical, competent financial advice to more Americans. In fact, CFP^® professionals donate tens of thousands of pro bono hours each year, and the number of professionals who volunteer in this capacity is on the rise.

To learn more about meaningful financial planning careers and CFP^® certification, visit getcfpcertified.org.

While financial planning is not always immediately regarded as a “helping profession,” it’s one of the few careers where you can make an immediate impact that uplifts individuals and strengthens families and communities.

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