Haven’t heard of the ACP?  Well it might be because it’s a brand new name for what was formerly known as the Alliance of Cambridge Advisors (ACA), a Fee Only organization that was created in 1995 by Bert Whitehead.  But more likely you haven’t heard of either name.  After all, this alliance is a well-kept secret.  And that’s too bad.  Because it’s made up of a group of highly ethical professionals who are dedicated to bringing comprehensive financial planning services (including help with taxes, investments, retirement & college planning, and more) to middle income people. 

I happen to be a proud member of the ACP, but how does that benefit you? 

1. First, it’s important to know that I embrace ACP’s holistic or comprehensive approach to financial planning.  Founded by Bert Whitehead, who has been named one of the best 100 financial advisors in America by Worth magazine every year since 1994, the fundamentals of our planning system have been around for decades.  It’s a tried and true approach that individual members of the Alliance have embraced and adapted to their own, independent practices.
    
2. Second, it’s truly an alliance.  We members have differing professional backgrounds and areas of deep expertise, so if I encounter a complex financial planning problem for which I need outside help, I know right where to go:  the Alliance of Comprehensive Planners.  My fellow members are always there to provide assistance or point me in the right direction (Yes, financial planning is an incredibly complex and ever-changing field.  I’m convinced that no one can master every facet of it no matter how long they’ve been in the business). 
    
3. Third, the ACP strives to set the highest standard of professional requirements in the industry.  Members must commit to earning and maintaining the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) certification or the CPA/PFS designation and, if they don’t have a prior tax background, they must complete additional tax training.  They also must commit to rigorous, ongoing continuing education requirements and subscribe to the highest standard of ethics in the industry. 

A holistic and comprehensive approach to financial planning.  A diverse membership base made up of professionals who are more than willing to help each other – professionals with deep backgrounds in investing, taxes, estate planning, insurance and more.  Financial Planners who are dedicated to living by the highest standards of professional requirements and ethics in the industry.  That’s what the Alliance of Comprehensive Planners is all about!

Greg Pierce is a Fee Only financial planner located in St. Louis, MO, who specializes in helping people make smart decisions in retirement planning, college education planning, tax planning, investments and more.