What does AFC mean in FINANCE

Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s special knowledge and experience in the field of financial counseling. An AFC provides basic financial advising to households who are experiencing economic distress or are trying to make decisions about money management. The program is administered by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE).

Becoming an Accredited Financial Counselor requires completion of a comprehensive course of study, which includes topics such as budgeting and credit management, financial analysis and planning, debt/debt negotiations, predatory lending practices, tax-related issues, estate planning, retirement planning, consumer advocacy and more. Additionally, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam upon completion of the courses to show mastery of the material before becoming an accredited AFC.

An Accredited Financial Counselor provides guidance on personal finance matters such as budgeting, credit management, debt management, investments and other money-management decision-making techniques. The primary goal of an AFC is to help individuals manage their finances in order to improve their short-term security as well as their long-term financial goals.

As independent professionals who hold a solid understanding of personal finance principles and practice elements such as budgeting and credit management, investment strategies and retirement planning; Accredited Financial Counselors provide a wide range of services that include but are not limited to personal finance education sessions; developing monthly budgets; evaluating debt levels; helping clients address delinquent accounts with creditors; offering advice on establishing emergency savings funds; providing counsel for investing into stocks or bonds; evaluating insurance coverage needs; assisting with estate planning efforts and more.

Generally speaking – yes you will need to schedule an appointment with your accredited financial counselor prior to visiting them. It is important that you reach out ahead of time so they can accurately prepare for the meeting's content. You should also come prepared with any relevant documents or questions you may have so the ADC can efficiently assist you during your visit.

Depending on what type of services you require from your AFC then there may be associated costs such as fees for analysis or consultation depending on how complex your needs may be. However at minimum most advisors will charge either by the hour or offer pre-paid flat rate plans depending on what exactly you require from them. It’s best to consult with your advisor directly regarding cost estimates prior to proceeding with any services requested.

Yes - Certified AFC's must fulfill Continuing Education Unit (CEU) credits each year in order to maintain their certification status. CEUs are designed to ensure that counselors stay up-to-date on changes in the field by offering additional opportunities for learning beyond traditional classroom instruction.

AFCCE is responsible for governing standards related to support training programs and issuing credentials specifically designed for individuals dedicated to working in financial counseling and asset management roles within communities across the US.

AFCPE offers several publications including The Journal Of Personal Finance™ which serves as a platform dedicated solely towards exchanging information regarding challenges associated with personal finance topics across various industries similar journals release throughout each year.