Financial Counseling Certification Program (FiCEP) Practice Exam

What should an intake form for financial counseling omit according to best practices?

1. The member's child’s name

2. Member's employment history

3. Member's financial goals

4. Member's contact information

The correct answer is: The member's child’s name

An intake form for financial counseling should omit the member's child’s name because it is vital to maintain the confidentiality and privacy of individuals who are not directly involved in the financial counseling process. Including personal information about dependents can create unnecessary exposure and potential risks regarding privacy, especially if sensitive financial information is also being collected. The other elements of the intake form—such as the member's employment history, financial goals, and contact information—are essential for understanding the member's current financial situation, aspirations, and facilitating communication. Employment history provides context for income and potential financial stability, financial goals help in tailoring the counseling to the member’s specific needs, and contact information is essential for follow-up and ongoing support. By prioritizing confidentiality and focusing only on relevant information, the counseling process can be both effective and secure.