About the Program
In collaboration with the Credit Union Foundation of MD|DC and Luminate Louisiana Credit Unions, the MD|DC Credit Union Association offers the enhanced version of America’s Credit Unions’ Certified Financial Counseling Program (FiCEP). This program combines webinar tutorials and live training with dynamic online content, providing an engaging and comprehensive learning experience.
Through FiCEP, credit union employees gain the essential skills and knowledge to effectively guide members toward sound financial decisions. Participants who successfully complete the program and pass the exam will earn the Credit Union Certified Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation, equipping them to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
The FiCEP certification program includes:
- 6th Edition Financial Counseling Certification Book (8 modules available in electronic or print format)
- Study guides & webinar tutorials summarizing key module concepts
- Online portal with resources, including conversation starters, budget worksheets, spending plans, and tracking tools
- Practice quizzes to assess knowledge before the exam
- Live, instructor-led exam prep session with sample questions and test-taking strategies
- Post-program virtual training with role-playing, best practices, and resource-sharing
- Proctored final exam (offered in-person or virtually)
- Official certification from America’s Credit Unions upon successful completion
- Access to an exclusive online community of Financial Counselors
- Invitations to roundtables, summits, and networking events
Who Should Earn CCUFC Designation?
Why Earn the CCUFC Designation?
Anyone passionate about financial empowerment is encouraged to participate, but this program is especially beneficial for:
- Lending Staff
- Collections Staff
- Branch Managers
- Trainers & Educators
The need for expert help is real, especially when so many face uncertain economic futures.
- Assist members in overcoming financial challenges
- Demonstrate the unique value of credit unions
- Attract and retain new members
- Drive growth in products and services
Program Enrollment
The course fee is $795, which includes access to the FiCEP portal and all program materials in either electronic or print format. During registration, participants can choose their preferred format:
Option 1 – PDF Book (Faster delivery)
Option 2 – Printed Book (Shipping or pick up available)
Self-study Schedule
September 9, 2026 | Module 1: Introduction to Financial Counseling
September 16, 2026 | Module 2: Financial Counseling Essentials
September 23, 2026 | Module 3: Special Issues in Financial Counseling
September 30, 2026 | Module 4: Using Communication Skills During Financial Counseling
BREAK
October 14, 2026 | Module 5: Taxes, Insurance, and Investments
October 21, 2026 | Module 6: Controlling Expenses
October 28, 2026 | Module 7: Money, Attitudes & Behaviors
November 4, 2026 | Module 8: Retirement & Personal Financial Preparedness
Testing/Training Schedule
November 10, 2026 | 9:00 am – 10:00 am EST
Exam Prep with Instructors (Virtual)
Online via Teams
November 12, 2026 | 10 am – 12 pm
Exam Day (Virtual)
Online via Zoom
November 17, 2026 | 9 am - 11 am EST
Financial Counselor Training (Virtual)
Online via Teams
Testing Information
Students will take their virtual, proctored exam on November 12, 2026, between 10 am and 12 pm.
If you can't take the exam on that date/time, please email Karen Stansbury at kstansbury@mddccua.org to schedule a new time.
All exams must be completed by December 31, 2026.
EVENT DETAILS
When
Where
Planner