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Accredited Estate Planner (AEP)
Designation Essentials
Status Currently offered and recognized by the issuing organization.
Issuing Organization National Association of Estate Planners & Councils
Qualification and Training Requirements
Prerequisites

Candidate must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Must be an attorney (JD), accountant (CPA), insurance professional and financial planner (CLU/ChFC, CFP) or trust officer (CTFA)
  • Must be in good standing with their professional organization and not be subject to disciplinary investigation
  • Must have a minimum of 5 years experience in estate planning in one or more of the prerequisite professions
  • Must devote at least 1/3 of one's time to estate planning
  • Must provide three professional references
  • Must have a current membership in an affiliated local estate planning council
Designation Training Requirements

2 graduate level courses administered by The American College or from another accredited graduate program as part of a master's or doctoral degree unless applicant has 15 or more years experience as an estate planner
Designation Exam Type

Final exam for each course. If self-study through The American College, must be taken at Pearson VUE testing centers, which are proctored.
Continuing Education Requirements

30 hours every 24 months, including 15 hours in estate planning. Re-certification required annually.
Verification and Complaints
Online Designation Resource

Online at Search Accredited Estate Planners
Investor Complaint Process

Complaint procedure and form available online at Accredited Estate Planner Complaint Procedure
Published List of Disciplined Designees

None