NICEP - National Institute of Certified Estate Planners: Become a CEP®

BECOME A CEP^®

ESTATE PLANNING TODAY

There has never been a more important topic or a more critical time in the story of our nation’s wealth.

The National Institute of Certified Estate Planners is proud to lead the way in the education and support of financial, legal and tax professionals who desire to take their practice into the comprehensive and demanding field of Estate Planning.

Estate Planning today is on everyone’s mind and has become increasingly more complex. Planners need to know how to serve their clients and safeguard themselves. Paying very strict attention to the prohibitions against the Unauthorized Practice of Law, the Institute has designed its course to instruct the planner in the proper techniques and language that can be used in their practice.

Join the growing number of professionals that are bringing such valuable expertise and confidence to their clients’ estate planning needs by earning the distinctive CEP® certification!

PRE-REQUISITES

Applicants for this course must hold a valid current license in either the financial, legal, or tax profession, or receive permission for enrollment based on some other relevant professional interest.

EARNING THE CEP^® CERTIFICATION

The CEP® certification is awarded only after:

1. the application process has been completed with full payment,

2. the corresponding educational component has been satisfied, and

3. the qualifying examination has been successfully passed.

APPLICATION & PAYMENT - The enrollment application must be accompanied by an enrollment fee in the amount of $1695 less any applicable discounts. The enrollment fee includes the cost of the course, materials, and exam. When paid at full price, the enrollment fee also includes the annual fee for the use of the CEP® certification in the first anniversary year. When the enrollment is discounted, payment of certification fees will commence the next calendar quarter following the certification award date (see MAINTAINING THE CEP® CERTIFICATION below). Candidates may request a payment plan if necessary, however the CEP® certification will not be awarded until full payment has been made. Unless other arrangements have been made, the entire enrollment fee is to be fully paid in advance of any course. Should an enrollment be withdrawn prior to a registered classroom or online presentation event, a refund will be issued of any enrollment fees paid less a non-refundable $195 processing fee. However, once an enrollee attends any portion of a classroom or online presentation, there is no refund policy whatsoever. UPCOMING CLASSES ARE LISTED BELOW.

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT - The educational component is completed through an interactive discussion of the course highlights done either live or online, in combination with reading and understanding significant self study materials. Candidates spend an average of 5 - 6 months of combined study and preparation between the live online sessions and self-study materials, before sitting for the proctored exam.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION - Successful completion of the CEP® Certification program requires that each candidate score a minimum of 70% on at least 100 multiple choice questions taken from a bank of 280 qualifying exam questions. The qualifying exam is very challenging, worded in such a way that the student must have a competent grasp of the subject matter, and often requires retakes. To assure that each examination takes place without the aid of study notes, materials, or assistance, the exams must be administered by an independent proctor who must be another licensed professional who is neither related to or under the employ or influence of the candidate. When necessary there is a $10 retest fee. No exam shall be given more than three times. Candidates have one year to complete the program.

Once the application, payment, and successful completion of the CEP® course and exam are satisfied, candidates receive a certificate granting the use of the prestigious CEP® certification along with the use of the trademark logo. Graduates will possess a broad basic knowledge of all aspects of estate planning, particularly in the area of probate and the use of trusts. They will have access to a rapidly growing network of attorneys, advisors and other professional organizations that can assist in attracting and developing a high net worth clientele.

CEP®s in good standing with the NICEP are listed on the company website, receive a login and password to access a support area of the website, may subscribe to a CEP® Personalized Website, may enroll in the Institute’s advanced Master Certified Estate Planner™ Course and earn the MCEP® certification, will receive our educational and informative communications, and will also have access to the NICEP brochures and other promotional and support material.

MAINTAINING THE CEP^® CERTIFICATION

Certificants must re-qualify annually based on the NICEP’s most current qualifications. The ongoing use of the CEP® certification is subject to three criteria:

1. the submission of an annual certification fee of $215 (or $176 when subscribing to automatic recurring quarterly installments of $44),

2. the completion of the NICEP continuing education requirement of a minimum of eight (8) hours every two (2) years in the area of estate planning, and

3. adherence to the NICEP professional code of ethics which requires model business behavior, compliance with State and Federal licensing authorities, compliance with represented professional companies and organizations, proper notification procedures, and submission to the findings and rulings of the NICEP with regard to the continued use of any certification which is conferred by the NICEP.

The NICEP reserves the right to deny, suspend, or revoke the use of the trademarked CEP® certification for any reason. Certificants not in good standing with the NICEP may not display or otherwise use in any way the CEP® trademark, certificate, logo, or associated material.

BROKER/DEALER COMPLIANCE

The CEP® certification is being used by individuals representing over 125 broker/dealers nationwide. If necessary, we will be pleased to assist in requesting a broker/dealer to accept and support the use of the CEP® certification.

CERTIFIED ESTATE PLANNER™ COURSE OUTLINE

Introduction to Estate Planning
- Defining Estate Planning
- Financial Professionals and the Unauthorized Practice of Law
- Client Concerns
- Estate Planning and the Transfer of Wealth
- Taxes

Getting Started
- The Essential Estate Planning Documents
- Planning for Death
- Advance Medical Directives
- Planning for Incapacity
- How are These Documents Managed by the Estate Planning Team?

The Paths Your Client Can Take From Here
- Where Do We Go From Here?
- Which Path is Best?
- Sixteen Considerations of Will Centered vs. Trust Centered Estate Planning

Understanding Wills
- Valid Will
- Types of Wills
- Amending and/or Revoking a Will
- Duties of an Executor

Understanding Trusts
- Living Trusts vs. Testamentary Trusts
- Revocable Trusts vs. Irrevocable Trusts
- The Revocable Living Trust
- Types of Revocable Living Trusts
- Estate Taxes and the Revocable Living Trust
- Key Estate Tax Rules
- The Trustee

Essential Elements and Special Provisions in Wills and Trusts
- The Essential Elements of a Will and a Living Trust
- Special Will and Trust Provisions for Special Situations

Funding the Trust and Following Up
- Funding the Revocable Living Trust
- Titling the Trust
- Assets that Require Special Attention
- Funding the Trust and Qualified Retirement Plans
- Q&A on Living with a Will and a Revocable Living Trust

Protecting Wealth and Providing a Legacy
- Insurance and Estate Planning
- Estate Planning and Asset Protection
- Other Trusts

OUR MISSION

We work with qualified financial, legal, and tax professionals who understand the importance of estate planning.

We train them to work together as a team to bring to every client a custom tailored estate plan.

We stress that every estate plan should be designed to preserve, protect, and pass on that individual's estate to whom they want, when they want, and how they want.

We think each client should also enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing their estate will be managed during their lifetime as they have directed, should they ever become incapacitated.

We believe every American adult deserves an estate plan that allows these goals to be accomplished in the most efficient manner available under the law, and that minimizes costs both now and in the future.

SCHEDULED CLASSES

CLASS NAME	STARTING DATE	ENROLL
CEP® Online Plus Presentation	01-17-2012	Enroll Now
CEP® Online Plus Presentation	03-12-2012	Enroll Now

A MARK OF EXCELLENCE

Let’s face facts… our country is in the midst of a profound financial reconfiguration. The Baby Boomer Generation, those born from 1946 to 1964, is just now entering retirement. The largest wealth transfer in our Nation's history is underway. There are probably dozens if not hundreds of financial, legal and tax professionals in most localities, and yet it is so common as to be cliché… the average American has done little or no estate planning.

How do you distinguish yourself amongst your peers in this current climate? Would you like to take your practice to a higher level of proficiency and credibility?

Set yourself apart with an education in estate planning that is truly a mark of professional excellence. This is simply the most relevant professional niche possible today for planners who desire to bring a comprehensive and thoughtful service to their clients. The Certified Estate Planner™ (CEP®) certification conveys in a clearly comprehensible way to your community that you are qualified to help them understand the various options and nuances of estate planning, and as a part of a professional team, capable of developing a customized plan that fits their unique set of circumstances.


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NICEP INSTRUCTOR

Attorney Jonathan M. Graham is the Dean of Education for the NICEP and the principal instructor for both the CEP® and MCEP® courses. He is an active estate planning attorney and resides with his wife and children in Plymouth, MA. In addition to his legal practice, Jon is also a member of the Real Estate Bar Association, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and is also an attorney for the Abts Institute for Asset Preservation. He has a proven track record as both a practitioner and a teacher in the estate planning arena, particularly in the use of trusts, elder planning, and corporate and asset protection strategies.

TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you for taking the time to teach the class. I learned a lot and I'm really looking forward to tailoring my practice to not only market myself as a CEP®, but also implementing the topics that I’m learning in the course.” Bruce B., WA

“This course was an excellent way to prepare for the CEP® exam. The course was fast moving, and questions were answered directly. It greatly increased my knowledge on trusts and estate planning. I can't wait to use the concepts learned in my business.” Jim D., FL

“Most of us have been exposed to at least some of the material in the course. However, this course takes it to another level and gives the financial advisor much greater knowledge of the entire estate planning process.” Philip E., TX

“I wanted to write to you to let you know that taking your class has been one of the best things I have done for my career. This class has given me the confidence to get in front of the very affluent and be confident in the advice I am giving. I have also used the information to get in the planned giving area. My B/D puts a premium on education, this class was a great experience and I hope some of my peers will take advantage of this opportunity!” Hugh H., GA

“I found this course to be quite helpful in consolidating a vast amount of information into a concise and smooth study. I definitely think it was helpful to my grasping the subject matter in a manner easy to recall.” Michael H., TX

“Just wanted to say thank you so much for the very informative and highly enlightening workshops we just attended. I can’t even begin to tell you how much this will enhance everything we do and the fact that we have such a huge resource available means so much. What you guys are doing is awesome.” Cheri H., NV

“I would recommend this course. With estate planning being a constantly moving target it is valuable for anyone who works in the legal or financial arena to be reminded of, or learn, the basics involved in current estate planning. Without continuing reminders and updates we can be unknowingly guiding our clients toward a path that may not suit them perfectly.” Mark H., NC

“The format of the course is perfect for a working professional and the direct approach was a tremendous asset. The recognition from clients about this certification has been extremely valuable. Thank you.” Philip K., IL

“The course far exceeded my expectations and is well worth the investment of your time and money.” Mark N., NC

“I am writing to thank you for the outstanding CEP® program presented in Colorado Springs. Your presentation was the most user friendly and practical application oriented program that I have attended in my thirteen years as an estate planner. Your services provide the estate planners the opportunity to take their practice to the next level in services and quality. I congratulate the NICEP for providing a valuable, timely, comprehensive, and quality focused educational service. You are establishing a new standard for the industry while making an immense contribution to professionalism in the arena of estate planning.” William S., CO

“I have been in the Insurance and Financial Services field for over twenty years. I started with one of the big mutuals and received excellent training. I always subscribed to the “get all the knowledge you can” approach in the business. I have attained many certifications to attest to this philosophy of approaching the business. I have many initials after my name to show my belief in knowing this ever-changing business environment of insurance and planning. For many years I worked and learned but still stayed in the same economic and income level. My practice is focused on Estate Planning and I have worked with some high-powered legal advisors, but did not feel fulfilled. In 2002 I enrolled in a program with the NICEP and earned my CEP® certification. The timing was perfect since I was working with a large estate and closed the largest commission I had ever attained. My income has grown over 5 times my average income before my association with the NICEP. It has given me credibility with advisors, more confidence in front of clients and the opportunity to have a large increase in my income. Thank you.” Stephen S., NC

“This course was excellent. Although my background was almost solely based in the securities industry, I was the highest ranking officer in the trust department of the second largest bank in the state. This training would have proven indispensible, both to my staff and to myself. I would recommend this program to anyone committed to the most efficient protection and transfer of wealth.” Mark S., NH

“I consider the time and dollars to be excellent investments and believe that the knowledge, certification, and association with the NICEP will be highly beneficial to my practice.” Jack W., TX

“Thanks again for a great class! Best course experience I’ve ever had!” John Y., CA