Updated: February 10, 2025
A Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) is a professional designation for individuals specializing in life insurance and estate planning. Established in the late 1920s, the CLU® credential signifies expertise in guiding clients through complex life insurance decisions, estate conservation, and wealth transfer strategies. Financial advisors with a CLU® designation are equipped to provide advanced insights into risk management and the legalities surrounding life insurance.
A Chartered Life Underwriter® is a financial professional with specialized knowledge in life insurance and estate planning. The CLU® designation is conferred by The American College of Financial Services and is recognized as a mark of excellence in the insurance and financial planning industries.
To earn the CLU® designation, candidates must complete a series of courses and examinations that cover various aspects of life insurance and estate planning. Additionally, they are required to have relevant work experience in the financial services industry.
Engaging a financial advisor with a CLU® designation offers several advantages:
Choosing a Chartered Life Underwriter® means partnering with a professional committed to providing specialized guidance in life insurance and estate planning. Their extensive training and ethical commitment make them valuable allies in achieving financial security and legacy goals.
Governing Body: The CLU® designation is conferred by The American College of Financial Services. For more information visit their official website.
What services does a Chartered Life Underwriter® provide?
A CLU® offers specialized services in life insurance planning, estate planning, and risk management, helping clients choose appropriate insurance policies and develop strategies for wealth transfer.
Is a CLU® different from a CFP®?
Yes, while both are financial planning designations, a CLU® focuses more on life insurance and estate planning, whereas a CFP® covers a broader range of financial planning topics.
How can I verify if a financial advisor holds a CLU® designation?
You can verify a CLU® designation by consulting the directory of CLU® credential holders on The American College of Financial Services website.
Do CLU® professionals adhere to a code of ethics?
Yes, CLU® designees must adhere to a strict code of ethics, ensuring they act in the best interests of their clients.
What is the significance of the CLU® designation in the financial industry?
The CLU® designation is recognized as a mark of expertise and professionalism in life insurance and estate planning, indicating that the holder has undergone rigorous education and adheres to high ethical standards.
Allan Slider is the Founder of FeeOnlyNetwork.com, a one-of-a-kind digital platform that elevates the visibility of fee-only financial advisors, individually and collectively. Fee-Only advisors are ONLY compensated by the client and NEVER make commission by selling financial products, or receiving kickbacks from brokerage firms. Allan is a consumer & investor advocate and a 20+ year veteran of online marketing for financial advisors.
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