Certifications › Legal & Estate Planning Certifications

Personal Financial Specialist (PFS™)

Certification Voluntary. It proves competence, but nobody is stopped from working without it.

They’re a CPA with additional training in personal financial planning, including estate and retirement guidance

Offered by: American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
Who it's for: CPAs practicing financial planning
Format: Experience and education plus exam
Time commitment: Varies
Cost: ~$400–$700
Website: aicpa.org

Key skills covered

Tax-efficient estate planning
Charitable and gifting strategies
Integrated financial plans
Fiduciary and compliance best practices

Costs, eligibility, and renewal requirements are set by the issuing body and change without notice. Confirm the current requirements with them before you enroll or sit an exam.

Visit the issuing body

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