Financial Planning Month
Financial Planning Month serves as a timely reminder for individuals to review and enhance their financial strategies. This observance encourages people to evaluate their current financial standing, set achievable goals, and create detailed plans to reach those goals.
Position your financial product or advisory service as the essential tool to help customers master their October financial planning goals and prepare for year-end.
- 'October Financial Planning Challenge': gamified savings tracker or budget app demo
- Expert webinar series: 'Holiday & New Year Financial Prep'
- Free financial health audit or goal-setting template download
- User testimonials: 'How I saved $X by reviewing my finances this October'
Notable campaigns3
- Acorns (Recent (ongoing)): Partnered with travel and entertainment brands (e.g., Expedia) to offer investment matching rewards—customers earn 4% back on eligible spending, which automatically invests in their Acorns account. Promoted via email campaigns.
- Barclays (Recent): Ran a direct mail + social media campaign featuring a Diet Coke/Mentos package to create buzz and user-generated content, positioning the brand as innovative and engaging.
- CFP Board (2025): Created a National Financial Planning Month Toolkit with ready-to-use social media posts for LinkedIn, X (Twitter), Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram; hosted CFP ambassadors on Fox & Friends and Good Morning America to discuss importance of financial planning at every life stage.
Social angles6
- 🎯 Goal-Setting Frame: "October = planning month. What's ONE financial goal you're tackling this month? Tag us—we'll help you create a plan." #FinancialPlanningMonth
- Money Stress Relief Angle: "72% of people feel less anxious with a financial plan. Ready to reduce your money stress? Start here: [link]" #FinancialConfidence
- Life Stage Messaging: "First home? Starting a family? Nearing retirement? No matter where you are, October is YOUR time to plan. What's your next milestone?"
- Educational Value Play: "Did you know most people spend more time planning their vacation than their finances? Not this month. Daily tips incoming. #FinancialPlanningMonth"
- FOMO + Action: "National Retirement Planning Week is October 12-18 (3rd full week). Don't wait until November—get your retirement plan reviewed NOW." #WFPDay
- Trust/Social Proof Angle: "98% of clients trust CFP® professionals to act in their best interests. Is your financial advisor one? #FinancialPlanning #FiduciaryFirst"
Ad copy starters5
“"Get Your Financial House in Order This October. Free Financial Review → [CTA]"”
“"Your Financial Plan Doesn't Have to Be Complicated. See How in 15 Minutes → [CTA]"”
“"October Is Financial Planning Month. Here's Why Your Money Needs a Plan → [CTA]"”
“"Worried About Retirement? A Real Financial Plan Changes Everything. Start Free → [CTA]"”
“"Stress About Money? This October, Build Confidence With a Personalized Financial Plan → [CTA]"”
Tips4
- ✅ DO: Tie campaigns to life stages, not just generic "planning." Retirement-focused clients, young families, self-employed—each has different pain points. Segment your messaging.
- ✅ DO: Emphasize the emotional/mental health side of financial planning (less stress, more confidence, peace of mind) alongside the numbers.
- ❌ DON'T: Assume everyone knows what "financial planning" means or why they need it. Lead with problems you solve, not services you offer.
- ❌ DON'T: Overlook compliance. If using testimonials or case studies, ensure SEC/FINRA compliance (no exaggerated claims, proper disclaimers). This kills campaigns fast if not done right.
Financial Planning Month started in 2002. The Financial Planning Association (FPA) initiated this observance to raise awareness about the importance of financial planning.
The aim was to encourage individuals to evaluate their financial health, set goals, and create plans to achieve them.
Loren Dunton played a pivotal role in the creation of the financial planning profession in the 1960s. He gathered financial professionals to discuss how to help Americans manage their finances better.
This meeting led to the formation of the Society for Financial Counseling, which evolved into the International Association for Financial Planners (IAFP).
The FPA chose October as the Financial Planning Month to help people prepare for the upcoming holiday season and the new year.
This timing is ideal for reviewing finances, setting new goals, and making necessary adjustments to ensure financial stability and success.
Set Fun Financial Goals
Why not start Financial Planning Month by setting some fun financial goals? Think about something exciting you want to save for. Whether it’s a dream vacation, a fancy gadget, or a special dinner, jot it down. Make a plan to save up for it. Watching your savings grow for something fun can be super satisfying.
Host a Budget Party
Invite friends over for a budget party. Ask everyone to bring their budget tips and tricks. Share ideas on how to save and spend wisely. Make it a potluck to keep costs low and enjoy some good food and great company. Creativity can make budgeting feel less of a chore and more like a game.
Create a Savings Challenge
Challenge yourself and others to a savings contest. Set a goal to save a certain amount by the end of the month. Track progress weekly and share updates with friends or family. The friendly competition can motivate everyone to stick to their goals. Plus, the winner gets bragging rights!
Review and Revamp
Take this month to review and revamp your financial plan. Look over your current budget, savings, and investments. Identify areas where you can cut back or improve. Maybe you’ll find some subscriptions you don’t use anymore or a better way to invest your money. Use online tools or apps to help streamline the process.
Learn Something New
Dedicate some time to learn something new about personal finance. Read books, listen to podcasts, or watch videos on topics you’re curious about. Whether it’s about investing, saving for retirement, or managing debt, expanding your knowledge can make a big difference. Financial literacy is an investment in your future self.