In most jurisdictions, there is no specific or legal certification or licensing needed for an individual to hold themselves out as a “financial advisor”. Because of this, anyone who helps manage money, could use the term financial advisor. Non fiduciary advisors typically have no requirement to put your interests ahead of their own – typically, the ONLY requirement, is that their recommendations be suitable. Non fiduciaries can choose products that offer higher commissions or have higher fees than other options. A “fiduciary” financial advisor is very different. A fiduciary financial advisor is legally required to put your interests ahead of their own. All Certified Financial Planners, are required to act as fiduciaries when dealing with their clients when providing financial advice.