FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:
Michael Daley
Phone: (978) 304-4438
Email: mdaley@hvsfinancial.com
Institute of Business & Finance Announces a New CSS™ Designee
San Diego, CA, November 20, 2025 – The Institute of Business & Finance (IBF) recently awarded Michael Daley the Social Security designation, CSS™ (Certified Social Security Specialist™). This graduate-level designation is conferred upon candidates who complete an educational program focusing on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, disability, retirement income, and the resulting tax ramifications.
CSS™ certification requires mastery of Social Security and Medicare benefits, costs, and strategies, including when to take Social Security benefits. According to IBF, “There are a large number of Social Security books and materials offered from a wide range of sources. The CSS program is one of the few courses that explains the benefits and planning opportunities in an easy-to-understand format.”
The student must pass a comprehensive exam, complete a written case study, and adhere to the IBF Code of Ethics and IBF Standards of Practice, as well as fulfill annual continuing education requirements. The CSS™ program is designed for brokers and advisors who have clients in their 50s or older, as well as those who may be providing care to an aging relative.
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS & FINANCE – Founded in 1988, IBF is a non-profit provider of financial education and designations to members of the financial services industry. IBF is the fourth-oldest provider of financial certification marks in the United States. In 1988, IBF launched its first certification program, CFS® (Certified Fund Specialist®). Today, IBF offers six additional financial designation programs: CAS® (Certified Annuity Specialist®), CES™ (Certified Estate and Trust Specialist™), CIS™ (Certified Income Specialist™), CTS™ (Certified Tax Specialist™), CSS™ (Certified Social Security Specialist™), and CDFS™ (Certified Divorce Financial Specialist™).