Estate Planning & Portability {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
In this episode of the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Podcast, Cary Sinnett welcomes Bob Keebler, a nationally recognized expert in estate and tax planning. Together, they break down the critical topic of portability in estate planning—what it is, how it works, and why it matters for both financial planners and clients. Key Insights: Portability: Use It or Lose It – If you don't elect portability within the required time frame, the deceased spouse’s unused estate tax exemption is lost forever. Deadlines Matter – The DSUE must be filed within 9 months of death, but an...
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Advancing CPA Financial Planning: Insights from Leaders Brooke Salvini and Oscar Vives {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
Welcome to the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Podcast, hosted by Cary Sinnett. In this episode, Cary is joined by Brooke Salvini, Chair of the Personal Financial Planning (PFP) Executive Committee, and Oscar Vives, Chair of the PFS Credential Committee. Together, they dive into pivotal advancements in CPA financial planning, including the integration of Personal Financial Planning into the CPA exam, updates to PFP standards, and the evolving role of technology and artificial intelligence in the profession. Key Discussion Points: Introduction and Guest Backgrounds Brooke shares her tenure...
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Education Funding {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
In this episode of the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Podcast, host Cary Sinnett welcomes Dr. Ross Riskin, Chief Learning Officer at the Investments & Wealth Institute and author of Guide to Education Planning. They dive deep into education planning strategies, including the benefits and complexities of tools like 529 plans, the importance of multi-generational funding conversations, and how to align education savings with broader financial goals. Here are five key takeaways from the conversation between Cary Sinnett and Dr. Ross Riskin: The Value of Education Planning Education...
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Deeper CPA Financial Planning Connections | Celebrating 30 Years in the Industry {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
This milestone episode celebrates 30 years of professional growth and client success, highlighting the dynamic evolution of the financial planning profession and the firm’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Five Key Takeaways: The Evolution of a Career in Financial Planning: Growth and succession is vital for a long-lasting impact. Lyle Benson introduces his son Chris. Chris Benson shares his journey from aspiring engineer to CPA financial planner, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his transition from a large CPA firm to the family firm. The Critical...
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The Power of Client Communication: 4S Framework for Financial Planners {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
In this episode, Cary Sinnet and Mark Gochnour explore how effective communication builds trust and sets financial planners apart. Mark introduces the 4S Framework—a powerful tool for connecting with clients and simplifying complex concepts. Key Takeaways Why Communication Matters: Builds trust, fosters engagement, and differentiates you from competitors. Avoid overloading clients with technical jargon or unnecessary details. 4S Framework for Communication: Scripts: Prepare and practice concise responses to common questions. Stories: Share personal anecdotes to build emotional...
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Understanding Bitcoin: A CPA's Perspective {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
Mark Astrinos and David Oransky discuss Bitcoin's role in modern investing, addressing its speculative nature, practical uses, and potential as a long-term store of value. They explore how advisors and clients can approach Bitcoin thoughtfully, balancing skepticism with understanding. Key Topics Covered: Foundations of Investing: Saving vs. investing and the speculative nature of all assets. Bitcoin’s similarities to "digital gold" and its unique network benefits. Bitcoin’s Role in Portfolios: How Bitcoin compares to traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and gold. Its potential as...
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Talking about Medicare {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
Jim Sullivan from Pay4Care.org discusses significant changes to Medicare’s prescription drug coverage in 2025, particularly regarding the Medicare Part D plans and Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage. Jim discusses key 2025 changes to Medicare Part D, including a new $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum for prescription drug costs. Beneficiaries can now opt for the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan, allowing them to spread out deductible payments monthly to ease early-year costs. The...
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Intersection of Health and Financial Planning {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
In this episode of the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Podcast, Cary Sinnett interviews Dr. Carolyn McClanahan, a physician and financial planner, on the importance of addressing healthcare in financial planning. They discuss how health and financial wellbeing are deeply intertwined, especially when planning for long-term care, aging, and unpredictable health events. Dr. McClanahan emphasizes the importance of having early conversations about healthcare plans, estate directives, and the costs of care to ensure families are prepared. How can financial planners integrate health-related...
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Deeper CPA financial planner connections with Marianela Collado {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
In this episode of "Deeper CPA Financial Planning Connections," Lyle Benson interviews Marianela Collada, CEO of Tobias Financial Advisors, about her career journey, the growth of her firm, and her role on the PFP Executive Committee. Marianela discusses her experience working with high-net-worth clients, the importance of estate and tax planning, and her approach to growing the firm's team and capabilities. She emphasizes the significance of proactive planning, developing new leaders within the firm, and her optimism for the future of the financial planning profession. How does proactive...
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Changes and clarifications with the SECURE Act final regulations {PFP Section}
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)
Expert Bob Keebler, CPA PFS, breaks down the final regulations of SECURE Act 2.0. Difficult RMD questions are answered and complexities explained. What is the difference between RMD rules for an IRA owner who dies before their required beginning date (RBD) versus after their RBD under the SECURE Act? Who qualifies as an Eligible Designated Beneficiary (EDB), and how are they treated differently under the SECURE Act when it comes to distributions? What is the significance of the 327 Election for surviving spouses with a significant age gap, and how does it impact the timing of...
info_outlineA recent CNBC survey of couples discovers that 64% admitted to being financially incompatible. A money date is a relaxed and open conversation about finances and goals. This is an important component to financial compatibility and avoiding potential conflict. It can benefit relationships of any length and open channels of communication with transparency and respect. Dave answers questions like:
- What is a money date and why is it important?
- How can it help understand each other’s financial habits and attitudes?
- What are the places for combined and separate money in marriage?
- Does this concept work for both newly engaged and long-term couples?
Many of the PFP Section resources provide ideas on topics that can be discussed in this manner including:
- The Life Events section of Broadridge Advisor provides conversation ideas relating to clients’ current or future situations.
- The new Health Transitions Guide help you talk clients through potentially stressful situations.
This episode is brought to you by the AICPA’s Personal Financial Planning Section, the premier provider of information, tools, advocacy, and guidance for professionals who specialize in providing tax, estate, retirement, risk management and investment planning advice. Also, by the CPA/PFS credential program, which allows CPAs to demonstrate competence and confidence in providing these services to their clients. Visit us online to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program.
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