Estate Planner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of wealth management, the role of estate planners has become increasingly significant.

As financial landscapes shift and change, the need for skilled professionals who can effectively manage, safeguard, and grow wealth is paramount.

But what does the role of an estate planner truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker seeking to understand the core of this position,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect job description,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of estate planning,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made estate planner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Estate Planner Duties and Responsibilities

Estate Planners are professionals who aid individuals in organizing and managing their assets for the future, including planning for the transfer of assets at death.

Their job involves a detailed understanding of various laws related to taxes, trusts, wills, probate, and property.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze the client’s financial situation including assets, liabilities, and cash flow
• Understand the client’s personal goals and wishes for their estate
• Advise clients on the suitable strategies and financial products that can help achieve their estate objectives
• Prepare legal documents such as wills, trusts, and power of attorney
• Work with other professionals, such as attorneys and accountants, to execute estate plans
• Ensure all planning is carried out in compliance with laws and regulations
• Review and update the client’s estate plan as necessary, particularly after major life events
• Keep up-to-date with changes in tax and estate laws that may impact clients
• Help clients understand the potential tax implications of various estate planning strategies
• Educate clients on the process and implications of probate, and how it can be avoided or minimized

 

Estate Planner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented, experienced Estate Planner to join our team.

As an Estate Planner, your main responsibility will be to provide guidance to clients on estate planning strategies that can protect wealth and ensure it is passed on according to the client’s wishes.

You will help clients design plans, which may involve drafting wills, creating trusts, designating beneficiaries, and more.

The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of tax laws, probate laws, and trust management.

 

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to provide expert advice on estate planning strategies
• Prepare and manage legal documentation such as wills, trusts, and estates
• Assist clients in setting up trust funds, gifting strategies, and other wealth transfer tactics
• Collaborate with accountants and attorneys to execute estate plans
• Stay up-to-date with changes in tax and probate laws
• Conduct estate planning workshops and seminars
• Keep records of all interactions and transactions with clients
• Design and implement strategies to minimize estate taxes

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Estate Planner or similar role
• Understanding of estate planning, tax and probate laws
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with discretion
• Degree in Law, Finance, or relevant field
• License to practice law in the state may be required

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Estate Planner
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Occasional travel may be required for client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Estate Planner or Head of Planning Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Estate Planner Do?

Estate Planners are professionals who assist individuals in planning the distribution and management of their personal estate during and after their lifetime.

Their primary role is to provide their clients with financial advice to ensure that their wealth and assets are well-managed and distributed according to their wishes after their death.

An Estate Planner’s task involves understanding their client’s financial situation, goals, and how they wish their estate to be distributed.

They may also be responsible for creating wills, trusts, and other documents that legally ensure the proper distribution of the client’s assets.

They typically work with financial advisors, accountants, and attorneys to develop a comprehensive plan that minimizes tax implications, maximizes wealth preservation, and maintains the financial security of their client’s heirs or beneficiaries.

Estate Planners also aid in setting up powers of attorney and healthcare directives, ensuring that their clients’ wishes are fulfilled in the event of incapacity.

As laws regarding estates and taxes may change, Estate Planners are also responsible for updating their clients’ estate plans to ensure they remain in compliance with current legislation.

 

Estate Planner Qualifications and Skills

An adept estate planner should possess qualifications and skills that align with the specifics of the role, which include:

• Excellent knowledge of estate planning principles and laws to provide sound advice and create effective plans for clients.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate clients’ financial circumstances, understand their wishes for their estate, and devise a plan that meets their needs.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly articulate complex estate planning concepts to clients and to understand their specific needs and desires.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish trust with clients and build long-term relationships.
• Attention to detail to ensure all aspects of estate plans are accurate and meet legal requirements.
• Problem-solving abilities to address any potential issues that may arise during the estate planning process.
• Strong ethics and discretion to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
• Knowledge of financial software to manage and organize clients’ financial data effectively.
• A qualification in law, finance, or a related field is often required, with additional certification in estate planning being highly beneficial.

 

Estate Planner Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for an Estate Planner role will typically require a law degree and some relevant experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in law firms or financial planning institutions.

They may have a basic understanding of estate planning, wills, trusts, tax laws, and insurance policies.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience often have been in roles such as Junior Estate Planner, Legal Assistant, or Financial Advisor, where they develop their skills in drafting estate planning documents and understanding the legal complexities of estate management.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have in-depth knowledge of estate planning strategies and are familiar with the laws and regulations pertaining to estate and tax planning.

These experienced professionals may also have proven success in handling complex estates and will often have achieved professional certifications such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Accredited Estate Planner (AEP).

Candidates with over 10 years of experience may be ready for a senior role or leadership position, often having a comprehensive understanding of estate, tax, and financial planning.

These professionals often possess strong client relationship skills, having advised and guided numerous clients through the estate planning process.

 

Estate Planner Education and Training Requirements

Estate Planners typically hold a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field.

This education equips them with the necessary financial knowledge and understanding of economic trends and regulations.

They usually have a background in law, tax, or finance, and many Estate Planners also hold a law degree (JD) due to the legal complexities involved in managing and transferring assets.

Some positions may require Estate Planners to be Certified Financial Planners (CFP), which requires passing a rigorous exam and maintaining continuing education.

Moreover, many Estate Planners also choose to complete a Master of Laws (LLM) in Taxation or Estate Planning, which provides a deep understanding of tax laws and estate planning techniques.

Knowledge of real estate, tax laws, trust, and estate laws is essential.

Thus, many professionals in this field also opt for relevant certifications such as Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) or Chartered Estate Planning Practitioner (CEPP).

Continuing education is important for Estate Planners due to the constantly changing laws and regulations.

Many professionals opt for ongoing training and development programs to stay updated with current market trends and legal changes.

 

Estate Planner Salary Expectations

An Estate Planner earns an average salary of $71,634 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, certifications, the complexity of the estate planning tasks, and the geographical location.

 

Estate Planner Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Estate Planner need?

Estate Planners must have a deep understanding of financial planning, tax laws and estate laws.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they will be dealing with clients and their families in sensitive situations.

Other important skills include attention to detail, problem-solving, analytical thinking and a good level of discretion and trustworthiness due to the confidential nature of their work.

 

Do Estate Planners need a degree?

A degree is often required to become an Estate Planner, typically in finance, economics, law, or a related field.

Many Estate Planners also choose to pursue further qualifications such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certifications.

Most importantly, they must have a thorough understanding of estate planning laws and practices, which can be gained through coursework or on-the-job experience.

 

What should you look for in an Estate Planner resume?

When looking at an Estate Planner’s resume, check for a solid educational background in a relevant field, as well as any additional certifications.

Confirm their knowledge in estate planning, tax laws and financial planning.

Look for experience in advising clients on estate planning and handling sensitive financial information.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills are also important, so look for evidence of these in their past roles.

 

What qualities make a good Estate Planner?

A good Estate Planner is highly organized, has a keen eye for detail, and is able to work diligently and thoroughly.

They need to be trustworthy and exhibit discretion due to the sensitive and confidential nature of their work.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also crucial, as they will be dealing with clients and their families during potentially difficult times.

They should also be able to explain complex financial and legal concepts in a way that clients can easily understand.

 

Is it difficult to hire Estate Planners?

Hiring Estate Planners can be challenging because of the specific skills and qualifications required.

It is also important to ensure that the candidate is trustworthy and can handle sensitive information with discretion.

However, offering a competitive salary and creating a supportive and professional work environment can attract high-quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the complexities and intricacies of being an estate planner.

Guess what?

It’s not just about drafting wills and trusts.

It’s about shaping the financial future, one estate plan at a time.

With our reliable estate planner job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why not delve deeper?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every estate plan is a part of a grander legacy.

Let’s design that future. Together.

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