Professional designations distinguish one profession from another by successfully meeting an established standard for competent practice. Designations protect the best interests of the consumer from unqualified service providers in the financial services industry. As a designation-granting body The Institute has authority over the granting of designations and protection of the licenses that govern the use of its marks. To maintain credibility, The Institute must govern itself by ensuring autonomy in its decision making and exercising control over the standards it uses to Determine who should be a designation holder.

Institute designation holders are required to disclose their Institute designation(s) to clients in a clear and timely manner. Institute designation holders are required to maintain sufficient CE credits for their respective designation(s) and may be subject to a possible random audit. These practices are in place to ensure the highest possible standard of professionalism among Institute designation holders.