RJ and Makay

Financial advisors' earnings declined 11% last year, indicates a new poll by the College for Financial Planning. Among 345 Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certificants and recent graduates of the College's CFP program, average annual earnings were $190,922 last year compared with $215,345 in 2009 and $195,349 in 2008. Residual effects of the recession were responsible for last year's decline, the College suggests.

Although they made less money last year, 94% of respondents said they're happy with their career choice. The poll also found respondents are: