The Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning

In this episode, Mike Bennett discusses the implications of the new estate tax exemption introduced by the Big Beautiful Bill. He provides a historical context of estate tax changes, explores the opportunities and challenges for estate planning, and emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies for financial advisors. The conversation also touches on the relevance of AB Trusts and state estate taxes, highlighting the need for advisors to stay informed and prepared for future changes.Remember to subscribe, leave a comment, and share with friends. If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes, shoot us an email at info@encorestateplans.com. We'd love to hear from you!

In this episode, we delve into the powerful partnerships between financial advisors and estate planning attorneys. Join host Matt Morris as he introduces Ryan Crandall, an innovative estate planning attorney from eLegacy Law. Discover how these collaborations enhance client experiences, streamline estate planning processes, and provide peace of mind. Learn about the unique virtual model of eLegacy and how it integrates with financial advisors to offer comprehensive, coordinated financial care. Tune in to explore the future of estate planning and the vital role of technology in this evolving field.To learn more about Ryan and his firm visit https://www.elegacylaw.com/about. Remember to subscribe, leave a comment, and share with friends. If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes, shoot us an email at info@encorestateplans.com. We'd love to hear from you!

Join us on this powerful episode of The Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning as we sit down with Vieng Bounnam, a seasoned Certified Financial Planner™ and a 25-year veteran at Fulcrum Wealth Management Group in the Pacific Northwest. Vieng shares her compelling personal journey from fleeing Laos as a child refugee to building a successful financial planning practice deeply rooted in holistic, client-centered estate planning. Vieng discusses why life insurance and comprehensive estate planning aren't just financial tools, but transformational strategies to prevent hardship and secure family legacies.Discover why incorporating estate planning into your advisory practice not only protects your clients but also significantly deepens client relationships, fosters intergenerational trust, and boosts long-term client retention. Vieng reveals practical insights on how to confidently initiate estate planning conversations, overcome client procrastination, and seamlessly integrate affordable trust-based solutions into your practice.If you're a financial advisor committed to offering comprehensive wealth management solutions and creating lasting impacts for clients and their families, this episode is essential listening. Key Topics Covered:Vieng’s inspirational journey and personal motivation for financial planningOvercoming barriers and confidently introducing estate planningWhy revocable trusts are critical and how they protect clients from probateEnhancing client relationships through proactive estate planningEffective strategies to boost intergenerational client retention ✅ Subscribe now for expert insights on elevating your advisory practice! 📧 Questions or feedback? Contact us at info@encoreestateplans.com.

In this episode, we'll uncover the most overlooked estate planning mistakes that could cost your clients dearly. From Florida’s unique homestead laws to choosing the right fiduciary, Wes shares insider strategies to help advisors navigate estate planning with confidence. Plus, learn about Encore’s streamlined process for seamless attorney-reviewed estate plans without the hefty price tag.If you're a financial advisor helping clients with estate planning, this is a must-watch to ensure you're providing real value, avoiding costly mistakes, and strengthening client relationships.What you'll learn from Wes:✅ The Encore process and how advisors can streamline estate planning.✅ Common pitfalls in wills, trusts, and fiduciary selections.✅ The powerful protections of Florida’s homestead laws.✅ Real-life estate plan disputes, and how to prevent them.✅ How to help clients ensure smooth wealth transfers💡 Resources Mentioned:🟢 Encore Estate Plans: https://www.encorestateplans.com/🤝 Connect with Wes Dunaway: https://help.encorestateplans.com/en/articles/10297097-meet-our-florida-partner-attorney-wes-dunaway

Summary: In this episode, Matt Morris, host of the Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning podcast, interviews John Saltarelli, a partner at Ross&Matthews, a law firm specializing in estate planning in Texas. John discusses the importance of having a dedicated estate planning coordinator on your team to help streamline the estate planning process and ensure that plans are properly funded. Key Takeaways: Benefits of a Dedicated Estate Planning Coordinator: John explains how a coordinator can alleviate some of the workload for financial advisors, allowing them to focus on building relationships and providing strategic advice to their clients. Encore and Ross&Matthews Partnership: Matt and John delve into the collaboration between Encore, a company that provides online estate planning tools, and Ross&Matthews. Encore offers a state-specific attorney review option, where Ross Matthews attorneys can review and provide feedback on estate planning documents created through Encore's platform for clients in Texas. Importance of Funding: John emphasizes the crucial role of funding estate plans to ensure they are effective and avoid probate costs. Keeping Estate Plans Up-to-Date: John advises that estate plans should be reviewed periodically, especially after major life events, to ensure they remain current and effective. Complexities Requiring Attorney Involvement: While Encore offers a user-friendly platform for basic estate planning needs, John acknowledges that some situations require the expertise of an attorney. He mentions specific scenarios such as blended families, high net-worth individuals facing estate tax issues, and individuals with beneficiaries receiving government assistance. Financial advisors looking for estate planning resources in Texas can learn more about Ross&Matthews here. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

In this episode, we talk to Jeff Clark, a seasoned advisor at Pine Grove Financial Group. He shares his insights on how to effectively integrate estate planning in practice. Leveraging personal anecdotes to connect with clients emotionally Using the Retirement Health Method to identify planning needs Streamlining the estate planning process with technology and collaboration Positioning as a trusted advisor through proactive planning Jeff has had great success with his strategies, elevating his practice and providing greater value to his clients. Find out more about Jeff and his firm at https://pinegrovefg.com Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

Summary: In this episode, we dive deep into the world of estate planning technology with Michael Reynolds, the principal of Elevation Financial. Michael, a seasoned advisor with a focus on financial therapy and digital assets, shares his insights on how technology, specifically Encore, has transformed his estate planning practice. Key Takeaways: * The Power of Technology: Michael discusses how platforms like Encore have simplified the estate planning process, making it more accessible and efficient for both advisors and clients. * Personalized Client Experience: He emphasizes the importance of providing a personalized and streamlined experience for clients, from initial intake to ongoing reviews. * Beyond the Documents: Michael explains how estate planning goes beyond document creation, encompassing ongoing reviews and updates to ensure plans remain relevant and effective. * The Future of Estate Planning: He shares his vision for the future of estate planning, highlighting the potential of technology to further enhance the client experience and streamline the process. To find out more about Michael and Elevation Financial, click here. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

Summary: In this episode, we delve into the world of estate planning coordination with David Littlejohn, a seasoned financial advisor with over 20 years of experience. David shares valuable insights on the importance of having a dedicated estate planning coordinator on your team. Key Takeaways: Streamlining the Estate Planning Process: David explains how a coordinator can significantly reduce the workload for advisors, allowing them to focus on building client relationships and providing strategic advice. The Benefits of a One-Stop Shop: By having an in-house estate planning coordinator, David's firm can offer clients a comprehensive solution, including estate planning, funding, and ongoing reviews. Leveraging Technology: David discusses how tools like Encore can streamline the estate planning process and make it more accessible to clients. Building Client Relationships: David explains how his role as a coordinator helps strengthen relationships with clients by providing personalized support and guidance throughout the estate planning process. The Importance of Funding: He emphasizes the critical role of funding estate plans to ensure they are effective and avoid probate costs. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights for advisors who are looking to enhance their estate planning services and provide exceptional value to their clients. To find out more about David and Littlejohn FS visit - ⁠https://littlejohnfs.com. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

The Power of a Dedicated Estate Planning Coordinator Summary: In this episode, we delve into the world of estate planning coordination with Bill Page from Modern Wealth Management. Bill, a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of experience, shares valuable insights on the importance of having a dedicated estate planning coordinator on your team. Key Takeaways:  Streamlining the Estate Planning Process: Bill explains how a coordinator can significantly reduce the workload for advisors, allowing them to focus on building client relationships and providing strategic advice.  The Benefits of a One-Stop Shop: By having an in-house estate planning coordinator, Modern Wealth Management can offer clients a comprehensive solution, including estate planning, funding, and ongoing reviews.  Leveraging Technology: Bill discusses how tools like Encore can streamline the estate planning process and make it more accessible to clients.  The Importance of Funding: He emphasizes the critical role of funding estate plans to ensure they are effective and avoid probate costs.  Building Client Relationships: Bill explains how his role as a coordinator helps strengthen relationships with clients by providing personalized support and guidance throughout the estate planning process. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights for advisors who are looking to enhance their estate planning services and provide exceptional value to their clients. To find out more about Bill and Modern Wealth Management visit - https://www.modwm.com Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

Streamlining Estate Planning: Insights from Adam Sommers on Enhancing Client Experience Episode Description: In this episode, Adam Sommers shares a comprehensive look at his workflow for guiding clients through estate planning using the Encore system. He walks us through the initial steps, from sending out an introductory document to setting up the first meeting, and discusses how important it is to address sensitive topics like end-of-life care. Adam also explains how his team assists clients in navigating the estate planning process, including reviewing and signing documents, updating beneficiaries, and even accompanying them to the bank. As the conversation unfolds, Adam highlights the importance of personal touches, such as providing a detailed binder with color-coded tabs, and the use of multiple vaults for document storage. Adam envisions a future where AI plays a crucial role in scaling advisory services and improving client retention. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to make estate planning a more engaging and efficient process, deepening client relationships and ensuring no detail is overlooked. Key Takeaways: Introductory Documents: Setting the stage for estate planning by asking clients critical questions about their future. Client Meetings: Utilizing the Encore system to gather information, review documents, and ensure all details are addressed. Document Handling: The importance of a well-organized binder with personal touches like a tangible personal property list. AI in Financial Planning: Adam’s vision of integrating AI into financial planning to identify gaps and prompt necessary actions. Follow-Up: The significance of follow-up meetings to ensure clients complete essential tasks like renaming accounts or updating beneficiaries. Resources Mentioned: Encore Estate Plans RightCapital for Document Vaults Everplans for Legacy Planning Encore Knowledge Base for Video Signing Process Call to Action:  Find out more about Adam and his firm at https://sommersfinancial.com  Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues. For any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at info@encorestateplans.com.

The Power of Story, Personal Loss, and Giving the Gift of Love with Daniel Kopp In this episode, Daniel Kopp shares his expertise on estate planning. Discover how he combines empathy and technical knowledge to help clients navigate complex estate planning matters. Learn how Daniel’s personal journey has shaped his approach to working with clients. Discover practical strategies for overcoming client objections and building trust. Gain insights into handling sensitive end-of-life conversations with empathy and care. Learn how to increase your estate planning completion rate through effective client engagement. Explore the importance of a holistic approach to financial planning, including estate planning. Daniel’s passion for helping clients and his unique perspective make this episode a must-listen for advisors looking to elevate their estate planning services. Find out more about Daniel here. Daniel mentioned a lot of great resources that our listeners may want to explore. See the links below: https://www.corgenius.com/ https://financialtherapyassociation.org/ https://online.k-state.edu/programs/certificates/graduate-certificates/financial-therapy.html https://newprairiepress.org/jft/vol12/iss2/2/ https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/article/journal/AUG19-financial-planning-ambiguous-loss-alzheimers-disease-implications-applications-and Questions let us know. You can find Encore Estate Plans online here.

Enhancing Estate Planning Conversations with Encore State Plans and FP Pathfinder In this episode of The Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning Podcast, we dive into a strategic partnership between Encore State Plans and FP Pathfinder designed to empower financial advisors in delivering exceptional estate planning services. Discover a new resource, the "Estate Planning Conversation Starter," created to streamline the estate planning process for both advisors and clients. Learn how to effectively initiate and navigate complex estate planning discussions, utilizing practical tools and templates. This episode provides valuable insights on overcoming common challenges and delivering proactive estate planning solutions. Key topics covered: The importance of estate planning in comprehensive financial planning Overcoming obstacles in estate planning conversations Utilizing checklists and templates to simplify the process The role of technology in enhancing estate planning services A collaborative approach to delivering client value Find out more about Encore Estate Plans here. Curious about FpPatherfinder? Find out more about them here.

Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning: Episode #8- Insightful Strategies from JT Belnap Welcome to another edition of the Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning. In this episode, host Matt Morris sits down with JT Belnap from Treasure Valley Financial Planning to delve into the intricacies of successfully implementing estate planning services. Located in the Treasure Valley, encompassing the Boise, Idaho area, JT's firm has garnered nearly 100 estate plans in partnership with the Encore team. JT shares his journey from working at Washington Mutual to establishing Treasure Valley Financial Planning in 2018. He discusses how his values-based approach to financial planning has shaped his firm's philosophy and success. In this episode, you will learn: Values-Based Financial Planning: How JT's approach emphasizes client-centric values and comprehensive service. One-Stop-Shop Model: The benefits of offering a complete estate planning service within a single firm. Client Relationship Building: Strategies to strengthen client relationships through estate planning. Business Growth: Insights into leveraging estate planning services to expand your practice. Tune in to learn how you can step into the estate planning gap, enhance your client offerings, and navigate the challenges of estate planning with confidence. To find out more about JT and his firm visit - https://treasurevalleyplanning.com Have questions or would like to find out more about EncorEstate Plans?⁠ ⁠Find us here⁠⁠.

Estate Planning Made Easy: How to Help Clients Overcome Procrastination This episode of the Advisor's Guide to Estate Planning dives into how to seamlessly integrate estate planning into your financial planning services. Financial advisor Amy Irvine of Rooted Planning Group discusses the challenges clients often face when it comes to creating essential documents like wills and trusts. You'll learn: Why clients procrastinate on estate planning (and how it can be especially common for men). How to streamline the estate planning process for a smoother client experience. Strategies for framing estate planning conversations in a positive and empowering way. Tips for celebrating clients' accomplishments after they complete their estate plan. By the end of this episode, you'll have practical tools to help your clients overcome their anxieties and get the peace of mind that comes with having a solid estate plan in place. Here’s a few of the resources Amy mentioned in this episode: https://www.moneyquotient.com Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard To find out more about Amy and her firm visit - https://www.rootedpg.com/about Have questions or would like to find out more about EncorEstate Plans? ⁠Find us here⁠.

Boost Your Client Services with Joel Top's Estate Planning Approach This episode dives into how financial advisor Joel Top is expanding his service offerings to include affordable estate planning. Previously a physics teacher, Joel left the traditional firm model to provide a more holistic experience for his clients. In this episode we discuss: Leveraging Encore software to streamline the estate planning process. Building a collaborative team with accountants and IT specialists for comprehensive client care. Structuring tiered service plans to cater to diverse client needs, from basic wills to complex trusts. Partnering with custodians and banks to facilitate trust funding. Joel also addresses the common client challenge of procrastination and offers strategies to help advisors navigate these conversations. Tune in for actionable insights on how to add estate planning to your client service toolbox and gain a competitive edge. Find us at ⁠encorestateplans.com

Abandon the Asset Chase: Build Trust & Client Peace with Financial Planning In this episode, we look at breaking the mold of traditional financial advising. We're moving beyond the chase for assets and diving into building trust with a client-centered, four-pillar approach. Our discussion with Eric Bishoff CFP® President and CEO of Bishoff Financial Group covers how to craft comprehensive financial plans that encompass budgeting, taxes, estate planning, and, of course, smart investment strategies. We unveil the secrets to building a successful financial planning business where everyone - not just the high net worth - gains access to the tools they need for financial security. New advisor or seasoned pro, this podcast episode equips you with the systems and strategies to take your practice to the next level. Eric brings a fun, laid back vibe to our conversation so grab your favorite snack and let's dive in!

Listen to Scott Leonard from Navigoe on the Advisor's Guide To Estate Planning Podcast! In this episode Scott dives into how advisors can simplify the estate planning process for their clients. Here's the nuggets of wisdom Scott offers: Streamlined Approach: Scott explains how his approach saved him time and money compared to traditional estate planning methods. This allows him to serve more clients effectively. Modernized Strategies: He discusses his expertise in navigating complexities like portability of the unified credit, ensuring clients receive up-to-date estate plans tailored to their needs. Enhanced Client Experience: Scott shares a positive client story where a trust document was completed quickly using his methods, highlighting his focus on client satisfaction. Advisor Best Practices: Scott emphasizes the importance of advisors having their own estate plans. He believes this helps advisors connect with clients and motivate them to prioritize estate planning. To find out more about Scott and his firm visit Navigoe’s website here.  Have questions or would like to find out more about EncorEstate Plans? Find us here. 

Description: Join Ariel, Mike & Yohance Harrison from Money Script Wealth Management as they explore estate planning, offering expert advice & real stories highlighting the crucial role of financial advisors. Learn why estate planning is vital for everyone, safeguarding assets & ensuring your wishes are honored. Key Topics: Importance of estate planning for all, common misconceptions, financial advisors' role, real-life examples. Show Highlights: Introduction & estate planning's significance, personal stories & insights, financial implications of illness, importance of financial preparedness, using personal examples, addressing financial advisors' role. Expert Insights: "Estate planning is crucial for everyone." "Financial advisors guide clients in estate planning." "Personal experiences highlight the need for proactive planning." Closing Note: Planning your financial future? Estate planning protects assets & ensures your wishes are honored. Whether starting or updating your plan, these insights can guide you. Stay tuned for more advice & stories on estate planning. Have questions? Find us at encorestateplans.com See you in the next episode!

In this episode of The Advisor’s Guide To Estate Planning we are excited to welcome Tushar Kumar, founding advisor at Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors! Tushar is an innovator when it comes to using Encore to streamline the estate planning process for his clients. In this episode, he discusses how Encore helps gather client information, walks clients through the necessary documents, and even connects them with legal services to finalize the plans, making estate planning efficient and accessible for everyone. Tushar also discusses using Encore to provide his clients new services, benefits like using templates for efficiency, client stickiness, attracting new clients, and creating and maintaining a one-stop shop image. Tune in to hear real examples and how-tos!

Matt and Ariel chat with Eric Negron, the CEO of ForeFront Wealth Partners, about all things estate planning and why he's a big fan of it. Eric's journey: Originally in retail, his finance degree led him to financial services. He emphasizes learning from a missed promotion and highlights his passion for financial planning. Estate planning 101: Early on, he saw the importance of estate planning through a partnership with a top producer. He talks about the role of lawyers and how understanding family dynamics is key. Why Encore? FinTech competition is heating up: Eric acknowledges the competition in the estate planning space, especially with FinTech solutions. Choosing the right partner: Company culture matters to Eric. He chose Encore because of Matt's character and their shared passion for simplifying estate planning. Making it easy: He criticizes overcomplicating things and emphasizes the importance of getting clients talking about this crucial topic. How to bring up estate planning with clients: Embrace the opportunity: Eric thinks advisors should definitely offer estate planning. Making it seamless: FourFront informed clients, integrated it into their existing process, and addressed concerns like lack of knowledge and cost. Legal stuff: Don't forget the lawyers: Eric stresses consulting with a compliance team and using clear legal language when partnering with attorneys. Pricing: Shop around: He offers to share their pricing guide and emphasizes researching local attorney fees. FourFront's package deal: Their service includes streamlined processes, attorney fees, and advisor time. Why estate planning is valuable: Knowledge is power: Eric highlights the information gathering involved, giving clients a clear picture of their financial situation. Turning estate planning into new clients: Social media magic: Eric suggests using Facebook to connect with potential clients. Partnerships: He also sees potential in collaborating with non-estate planning attorneys for referrals. The bottom line: Big impact: Partnering with Encore has brought FourFront $20 to $40 million in additional assets under management. More than just money: Offering estate planning attracts clients who might not meet investment minimums and builds brand recognition. Closing thoughts: Don't be afraid to talk about it: Eric encourages advisors to overcome their hesitation regarding estate planning conversations and embrace the resources Encore provides. Eric is open to connecting with other advisors. Check out Eric's podcast at https://forefrontan.com/davidadvisormovement/