Gerri A Harrison CFP EA has been in the financial services field since 1983.

I graduated with a bachelors’ degree in Accounting from Binghamton University. I am just a few credits short of obtaining my Masters degree in Personal Finance. I currently hold three designations – CFP, EA and RTRP.

To qualify as a certified financial planner (CFP), I was required to pass a series of tests involving several areas of personal finance. To maintain the CFP certification I must have a minimum of thirty continuing education credits every two years.

An enrolled agent (EA) is a designation earned by passing a four part test given by the Internal Revenue Service. It gives me the right to practice before the IRS, allowing me to do audit and representation work. As an EA, I am required to have a minimum of 72
continuing education credits every three years. As a member of the National Association of Tax Preparers and the National Association of Enrolled Agents, I have access to research services, up-to-date tax information, numerous articles specializing in tax issues and networking with peer opportunities.

The registered tax return preparer (RTRP) is a designation earned by passing the competency test generated by the Internal Revenue Service. It gives me the ability to prepare income tax returns. As an RTRP, I am required to have a minimum of 15 continuing education credits every year.

I have owned Gerri Harrison Financial Services since May, 2005. I have taught and continue to teach classes and seminars through my own business and through other organizations. I have also taught several classes through the Broome Community College Adult Education program. I have written a book called, “Mom, Can I have that?” which helps show parents how to raise financially responsible children. I am an active volunteer with SCORE, an organization that offers free small business consulting.

I am a firm believer in education and never tire of investigating new areas of personal finance. One of my favorite activities is reading a financial magazine, newsletter or a financial website. I get so excited when I find something new that will help a current client or that I can tuck away for a potential future client.