2009 Overview

FPA conducted a comprehensive salary survey from April 30 - May 22, 2009. Over 1500 planners completed the survey representing over 1400 practices/firms. All FPA members who completed the survey received a free copy of the report. FPA members who did not participate can purchase the report at a significant discount. Visit FPA's Online Store for details.

2009 FAQ

What is included in the report?

The Financial Planning Salary Survey, developed from data provided by over 1,500 individuals, covers the compensation, characteristics/functions, and retention/turnover information for 21 positions found in financial planning practices.

It also covers key information about benefits including how many practices provide a specific benefit, who pays for the benefit, how 401(k) matching is handled in an average practice, and the amount and type of time off other practices provide.

In addition, this report includes hiring and retention information including how financial planning practices handle recruiting, the hiring process, average employee turnover, future hiring plans and how to drive employee satisfaction.

You can also download a copy of the table of contents (pdf).

I've heard about an interactive compensation worksheet. What is it and how do I get access?

As a bonus, purchasers of the report and FPA members who participated in the survey receive access to an interactive compensation worksheet that will help you generate a customized salary range for a particular position. The salary range is customized by various firm and individual characteristics where the data provides that level of detail. The interactive worksheet uses a similar process to the worksheet provided at the end of the printed report with the exception that it automatically pulls the correct data and runs the calculations for you. To view a demo please click here (will open on YouTube).

If you have purchased or received the report, simply follow the instructions provided on page 3 for access.

I did not participate. Is there anything I can access for free as an FPA member?

Yes! As an FPA member you receive access to a nationwide average calculator which is available in excel format (.xls) on the Practice Management Center. Click here to access.

An article on driving employee satisfaction, developed from some of the research findings, is available by clicking here.

Why don't all members receive a free copy instead of only those who participated?

All members have the opportunity to get the report free by participating. In future years, if you are an FPA member and would like to receive the report free, simply spend 20-30 minutes completing the survey. Alternately, members receive a significant discount on purchasing the report.  

We do need members to provide data on their practice or position in order to provide this report. Each additional participant enables us to provide more accurate and thorough reporting so please consider taking the time to participate in future years.