CFP Board Seeks Public Input on Changes to Certification Rules

Posted on April 8th, 2025 at 9:21 AM
CFP Board Seeks Public Input on Changes to Certification Rules

From the desk of Jim Eccleston at Eccleston Law

The CFP Board is requesting public comment on proposed revisions to its procedural rules regarding certification eligibility for candidates with a single bankruptcy or multiple misdemeanor convictions related to alcohol or drug offenses.

ThinkAdvisor reports that the proposed changes would modify Article 5 of the procedural rules to create an expedited assessment process for candidates with certain financial or criminal histories.

Under the proposed revisions, a candidate with a past bankruptcy may obtain CFP certification with either a caution or public notice, depending on how long ago the bankruptcy occurred and whether the individual was providing professional services at the time. Additionally, candidates with multiple alcohol- or drug-related misdemeanor convictions may receive certification with a caution if their most recent offense occurred at least seven years ago.

ThinkAdvisor added that these revisions aim to align with existing practices while reducing the volume of cases reviewed by the CFP Board’s Disciplinary and Ethics Commission (DEC). The changes are intended to balance consumer protection with a transparent and consistent certification process.

 

Eccleston Law LLC represents investors and financial advisors nationwide in securities, employment, transition, regulatory, and disciplinary matters.

Tags: eccleston, eccleston law

Return to Archive

TESTIMONIALS

Previous
Next

I just wanted to say thanks again for preparing and executing my case in such a professional manner. It was a pleasure to watch two professionals take such pride in their work, as well as becoming personally in tune with your client (Me). I would personally recommend you and your firm to anyone.

John O.

LATEST NEWS AND ARTICLES

February 12, 2026
CFTC Signals New Rulemaking for Prediction Markets and Crypto Oversight

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) plans to develop new regulations governing the growing prediction markets industry, Chairman Michael Selig announced, signaling a shift in regulatory strategy.

February 11, 2026
Ameriprise Advisor Phishing Incident Potentially Exposes Client Data

A phishing incident involving an Ameriprise Financial advisor potentially exposed the personal information of hundreds of clients, according to a disclosure posted by the Maine Attorney General’s office.

February 10, 2026
Merrill Lynch Expands Client Disclosures on Crypto and AI Risks

Merrill Lynch updated its required client disclosure brochure to address, for the first time, the evolving risks tied to cryptocurrency-linked investments and the firm’s expanding use of Artificial Intelligence tools.