CFG Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CFG facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What distinguishes a Certified Financial Gerontologist certified professional from a non-certified practitioner? → Certification validates competency through standardized assessment against benchmarks
2. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) principle applies to ALL CFG certified professionals regardless of their specific role? → PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced as needed
3. Which statement BEST describes the relationship between Certified Financial Gerontologist certification and industry evolution? → Requirements evolve periodically to reflect advances in knowledge and practice
4. Which government program is the primary payer for long-term care services in skilled nursing facilities for low-income older adults in the US? → Medicaid
5. How can older adults protect against fraud? → Stay informed and use advisors
6. Which of the following best describes the Social Security spousal benefit? → Up to 50% of the worker's primary insurance amount
7. How does inflation impact older adults' finances? → Reduces purchasing power
8. What is a durable power of attorney for healthcare? → Healthcare decision authorization
9. What is the MOST effective way for new CFG professionals to build competency? → Combining formal education, mentored practice, and ongoing professional development
10. What is a 'hybrid' or 'linked benefit' long-term care insurance policy? → A life insurance or annuity policy with a long-term care benefit rider
11. What is the MOST important principle of professional documentation in Certified Financial Gerontologist practice? → Recording information accurately, objectively, and in a timely manner
12. What is the 'spend-down' process in Medicaid long-term care planning? → Reducing countable assets to meet Medicaid eligibility thresholds
13. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in Certified Financial Gerontologist? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
14. What is the Medicaid 'look-back period' for asset transfers, and what penalty applies for improper transfers? → 60 months; a period of Medicaid ineligibility proportional to the value transferred
15. Which program provides cash assistance to low-income elderly and disabled individuals who have limited Social Security work history? → Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
16. How does the CFG body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
17. Under Medicaid eligibility rules, what is the term for the minimum amount a community spouse may retain from the couple's combined assets? → Community Spouse Resource Allowance (CSRA)
18. Which of the following best describes the 'Special Enrollment Period' (SEP) for Medicare Part B? → An 8-month window to enroll after employer group health coverage ends
19. What role does social support play in aging? → Supports mental health
20. What is the PRIMARY reason for regulatory compliance in the Certified Financial Gerontologist profession? → To protect public safety, ensure quality, and maintain professional integrity
21. How do beneficiary designations affect estate planning? → Determine asset recipients outside probate
22. Which regulatory requirement is UNIVERSAL across all Certified Financial Gerontologist practice settings? → Maintaining current certification and continuing education
23. What is mandatory reporting in elder care? → Required reporting of abuse
24. Why is diversification important in retirement portfolios? → Reduce risk through diversification
25. Effective communication between Certified Financial Gerontologist professionals and stakeholders requires which essential element? → Adapting communication style to the audience while maintaining accuracy
26. Which type of Medicare Advantage plan requires members to use a network of providers and obtain referrals from a primary care physician? → Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
27. Which of the following activities of daily living (ADLs) is NOT typically included in the standard six ADLs used to trigger long-term care insurance benefits? → Driving
28. How long should CFG professionals typically retain official documentation? → According to applicable regulatory requirements and organizational policies
29. What is the Medicaid 'look-back period' that reviewers examine for asset transfers made below fair market value? → 60 months
30. How long should CFG professionals typically retain official documentation? → According to applicable regulatory requirements and organizational policies