What is an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®)?

An Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) is a professional designation awarded by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC) to individuals who meet stringent requirements in education, experience, and ethical standards. This designation signifies a commitment to the team approach in estate planning, ensuring comprehensive and collaborative strategies for clients.

Understanding the Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) Designation

The AEP® designation is a graduate-level specialization in estate planning. It is conferred upon professionals who not only possess an existing credential such as attorney (JD), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®), Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®), CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®), or Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA), but also demonstrate significant engagement in estate planning activities. These professionals must adhere to the highest ethical standards and commit to ongoing education.

How Do Financial Advisors Earn the AEP® Designation?

To earn the AEP® designation, candidates must fulfill several criteria:

• Professional Credentials: Hold a recognized designation or license, such as JD, CPA, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®, or CTFA.
• Experience: Have a minimum of five years of experience actively engaged in estate planning.
• Education: Complete two graduate-level courses through The American College of Financial Services, unless the candidate has over 15 years of experience, which may exempt them from this requirement.
• Professional References: Provide three professional references from individuals familiar with the candidate’s work in estate planning.
• Affiliation: Maintain membership in an affiliated local estate planning council.

Additionally, AEP® designees must commit to ongoing continuing education, completing 30 hours every 24 months, with at least 15 hours focused on estate planning.

Benefits of Working with an AEP®

Engaging an Accredited Estate Planner® offers several advantages:

• Comprehensive Expertise: AEP® designees possess advanced knowledge in estate planning, ensuring that all aspects of your estate are meticulously managed.
• Collaborative Approach: These professionals emphasize a team-based strategy, collaborating with other experts to provide holistic solutions tailored to your needs.
• Ethical Standards: AEP® designees adhere to strict ethical guidelines, ensuring that your estate planning is conducted with integrity and in your best interest.

Conclusion

Choosing an Accredited Estate Planner® ensures that you receive specialized, ethical, and comprehensive estate planning services. Their commitment to collaboration and ongoing education positions them to address complex estate planning needs effectively.

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The AEP® designation is governed by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC). For more information, visit their official website.

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FAQ

What is the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC)?

The NAEPC is a national organization that supports the team concept of estate planning. It awards the AEP® designation to qualified professionals and provides resources for ongoing education and collaboration among estate planning professionals.

How does the AEP® designation differ from other financial planning credentials?

While many financial planning credentials cover a broad range of topics, the AEP® designation specifically focuses on estate planning. It emphasizes a collaborative, team-based approach, ensuring comprehensive estate planning services.

Is ongoing education required for AEP® designees?

Yes, AEP® designees must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 24 months, with at least 15 hours dedicated to estate planning, to maintain their designation.

Can professionals with extensive experience bypass the educational requirements for the AEP® designation?

Professionals with over 15 years of active engagement in estate planning may be exempt from the graduate-level course requirements, subject to NAEPC’s approval.

How can I verify if a professional holds the AEP® designation?

You can verify a professional’s AEP® status through the NAEPC’s official website, which offers a directory of accredited estate planners.