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Clayton@CobblestoneFS.com

What's an AEP?

What Is the Accredited Estate Planner Designation?

Clayton J. Winkler is an Accredited Estate Planner. The AEP designation is a way for estate planning specialists to set themselves apart from other financial professionals. This professional designation is administered by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC).

What are the requirements?

  • Clayton holds an active license or designation in good standing (e.g., JD, CPA, CFP, CLU, ChFC, CTFA, or CFA). 
  • Experience & Time: Clayton has at least 5 years of active, professional experience in estate planning, and you must devote at least one-third (1/3) of your professional time to estate planning activities. 
  • Education: Clayton successfully completed at least two graduate-level courses through The American College of Financial Services. Candidates with 15+ years of experience may only be required to take one specific course (MSFP 615 Advanced 

What does an AEP professional do?

Clayton serves as an Accredited Estate Planner (AEP), helping individuals and families develop comprehensive estate plans that align with their financial goals, protect their assets, and facilitate the efficient transfer of wealth across generations through coordinated legal, tax, and financial strategies.
 

Who Should Choose an AEP?

An Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) is an excellent choice for individuals and families who want a comprehensive, coordinated approach to protecting their wealth and planning for the future. This credential is particularly valuable for business owners, high-net-worth individuals, blended families, retirees, parents of young children, and anyone with complex financial or tax considerations.

Those who anticipate transferring significant assets, supporting charitable causes, planning for a loved one with special needs, or minimizing estate taxes can also benefit from working with an AEP. By bringing together expertise in estate planning, tax strategies, financial planning, and wealth preservation, an Accredited Estate Planner helps clients develop personalized strategies that align with their goals and provide confidence for future generations.