Learn legal and financial tools for transferring wealth efficiently while minimizing estate taxes and probate.
About this course
Estate planning is the final piece of the financial planning puzzle. In this course, you move beyond basic budgeting and investment strategies to explore the complex legal and financial tools used to transfer wealth. You will learn how to structure estates to minimize taxes, avoid probate, and ensure that a client's assets are distributed according to their wishes.
We focus on practical applications. You will work through real-world case studies, drafting sample trusts and analyzing tax consequences for different family structures. The goal is to give you the confidence to advise clients on the long-term preservation of their wealth.
Who takes this course
- Financial Planning students
Credits: 3 · Hours: 45
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
- Evaluate the legal implications of various estate transfer instruments, including wills, trusts, and joint ownership structures.
- Calculate potential probate fees and income tax liabilities for different estate scenarios.
- Design integrated estate plans that align with a client's risk tolerance and liquidity needs.
- Advise clients on strategies to minimize capital gains and estate taxes through timely gifting and charitable giving.
- Identify common pitfalls in estate administration and recommend preventive measures for clients.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Mid-term case study | 25 |
| Estate plan simulation project | 35 |
| Final examination | 40 |