AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)

AICPA & CIMA
  • 4.6 (54)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)

Welcome to the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Section podcast. Follow us to receive unlimited access to free podcasts from nationally known experts on topics such as retirement, estate, tax, investment planning, and more. Visit us online at aicpa-cima.com/pfp to join our community and gain access to valuable member-only benefits.

  1. 5D AGO

    How to Talk to Your Kids About Your Estate Plan

    As CPA financial planners, we often encounter a painful reality: adult children who are surprised, or even hurt, by their parents’ estate plans—after it’s too late for discussion. In this episode, Cary Sinnett speaks with Kelley Long, a respected fee-only financial wellness coach and former bank trust officer, about how proactive communication can help families preserve relationships and honor intentions. Kelley offers practical, thoughtful strategies for advisors to help clients initiate and navigate these conversations. Topics include: The ideal timing for involving heirs in estate planning discussions Balancing fairness and transparency, especially when distributions are unequal How to help clients overcome the fear of conflict or entitlement The importance of framing the conversation around values and legacy, rather than specific financial details The role of ethical wills in clarifying intent and reducing misunderstandings Key Insight: Estate planning is not just a legal or financial process—it’s a relational one. When clients are supported in sharing their intentions and values clearly, the outcome is not just a smoother transition of wealth, but a stronger foundation for family unity. Resources: Guide: The Adviser’s Guide to Financial & Estate Planning – 15th Ed – Vol. 1 Podcast: Estate planning conversations all clients need to have now 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. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    20 min

  2. MAY 2

    Financial Gratitude: The Behavioral Advantage Every CPA Planner Should Leverage

    In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Meghaan Lurtz joins Cary Sinnett to explore a deceptively simple concept with powerful implications: financial gratitude. Discover how shifting the conversation from scarcity to sufficiency helps clients make better long-term decisions, build trust, and find meaning in their financial journey—especially in volatile times. 💡 What You’ll Learn: Why gratitude is more than a feeling—it’s a behavior that shapes financial planning success How to introduce reflective questions that don't feel “woo-woo” in a CPA-led client meeting When not to invoke gratitude: understanding the line between healthy reflection and toxic positivity Practical ways to weave gratitude into your meetings, newsletters, and client appreciation events How this subtle shift leads to stronger client connections, better retention, and higher satisfaction 💬 Key Quote: “Gratitude changes the conversation, not just the mood. It’s not about ignoring tough realities—it’s about helping clients find agency, perspective, and partnership in the plan.” 📘 Perfect For: CPA planners who want to differentiate themselves with a human-first approach—without sacrificing technical precision. Resources: Dr. Lurtz has designed resources for financial advisors who want to create more emotionally intelligent and connection-rich client conversations: (Less) Lonely Money  Grandmas and Gratitude. (Less) Lonely Meetings The Kind of Gratitude that Brings Us Closer.  AICPA: Moving from advisor to coach for your clients How emotions affect financial decisions Financial Independence: Rethinking Retirement 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. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    21 min

  3. APR 18

    Business Exit Transitions for CPA Financial Planners

    Host Cary Sinnett and business transition advisor Mike Benedict discuss how to prepare business owners for one of their largest lifetime transactions—exiting their business. The conversation covers key aspects of pre-transaction preparation, valuation methods, building a sell-ready business, and leveraging tax strategies to maximize outcomes. Key Insights Pre-Transaction Preparation: Use a thorough quality of earnings review—similar to staging a home—to highlight strengths and avoid surprises during due diligence. Integrated Planning: Blend exit strategies with overall financial and estate planning to manage tax implications and valuation challenges seamlessly. Realistic Valuation: Rely on recast financials and market comparable to determine a fair, median value that avoids skew from outlier offers. Sell-Ready Business: Aim for a business that operates independently, with strong margins and a robust management team, to attract quality buyers. Strategic Tax Optimization: Apply targeted tax strategies and leverage specific IRS elections to minimize capital gains and enhance the net proceeds from a sale. Access resources related to this podcast: Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links. Guide: The Adviser’s Guide to Financial & Estate Planning – 15th Ed Podcast: Building business owner wealth with tax advantaged plans Podcast: Deeper CPA financial planner connections with Mackey McNeill 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 at www.aicpa.org/pfp to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    21 min

  4. APR 4

    When theft gets taxing with Bob Keebler

    In this episode, Cary Sinnett is joined by renowned CPA and tax expert Bob Keebler to unpack the complexities of theft and casualty loss deductions under IRC Section 165. From pig butchering scams to IRA fraud and Ponzi schemes, this episode dives deep into the kinds of losses the IRS will—and won’t—let you deduct, what qualifies as a profit motive, and how financial planners can guide their clients through one of the most emotionally and financially painful tax situations. Five Key Insights for CPA Financial Planners: Profit Motive Determines Deductibility To qualify under Section 165(c)(2), a theft or loss must stem from a transaction entered into for profit. Losses from romantic or emotional scams—where no profit motive exists—do not qualify. Five Scam Archetypes to Know A recent IRS CCA outlined five fraud scenarios: Compromised account scams Pig butchering (crypto fraud) Phishing and impersonation Romance scams Kidnapping/extortion schemes Only the first three had profit motives and were deductible. The IRA Trap: The Tax Hit Before the Scam If a client is duped into withdrawing funds from an IRA and then loses the money to a scam, they face a double blow—taxable income and no deductible loss. CPA advisors must flag this risk early. Documentation Is Critical for IRS Support To substantiate a theft loss, clients need: Bank records (e.g., wire transfers) Law enforcement reports A clear, detailed paper trail showing the loss and the attempt to recover funds Directing the IRS to the assigned FBI agent can strengthen the claim. Mitigation and Planning: Protecting Vulnerable Clients Encourage older or high-net-worth clients to follow a “1–2% rule” on risky investments. Foster opens dialogue with family members and advisors to prevent fraud and ensure support if it occurs. Access resources related to this podcast: Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links. IRC Section 165 IRS CCA 2025-101015 (the ruling discussed) Revenue Procedure 2009-20 (Ponzi Scheme Safe Harbor) AICPA PFP Section Guiding your clients who are financial caregivers Scam Tracker Risk Report 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. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    19 min

  5. MAR 21

    Estate Tax Repeal & Its Impact on Planning

    In this episode of the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Podcast, host Cary Sinnett speaks with expert CPA estate planner Bob Keebler about the latest legislative efforts to repeal the estate tax. They discuss the implications for financial planners, strategies to consider, and how advisors can proactively help clients navigate potential changes. Key Takeaways: Estate Tax Repeal on the Horizon Bills have been introduced in Congress to repeal the estate tax while retaining the gift tax and repealing the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax. The likelihood of repeal is uncertain, and any repeal may be temporary depending on future political shifts. Potential Scenarios for Estate Tax Reform Three possible outcomes: extension of the current Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), total repeal, or a sunset of the current exemption levels. A sunset would likely be the least favorable for high-net-worth individuals, while total repeal could create new planning challenges. Implications for Estate Planning Strategies Portability rules could be affected, potentially eliminating the ability for a surviving spouse to use a deceased spouse’s unused exemption. Trust structures, such as bypass and GST-exempt trusts, may need to be reviewed and adjusted before any legislative changes take effect. Planning Ahead: A Limited Window for Action Advisors should consider creating GST-exempt trusts in 2025 before any repeal is enacted to preserve tax benefits. Reviewing and updating existing estate planning documents is critical to avoid unintended consequences if the tax law changes. Access resources and events related to this podcast: Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links. Understanding Estate Tax Sunset | Navigating Tax Changes for Expiring TCJA Provisions Estate planning for the TCJA sunset of the double exclusion amount Planning for tax changes and tax reform 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. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    20 min

  6. MAR 7

    Additional Social Security Payments for Some Clients

    Cary Sinnett and Dan Snyder discuss the repeal of the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), major changes impacting public workers, spouses, and retirees. Learn who is affected, how to claim retroactive payments, and key financial planning strategies. Key Takeaways: Who’s Affected? Retired public workers, teachers, police, firefighters, and spouses previously impacted by GPO/WEP. What Changed? The Social Security Fairness Act (Jan 2025) repeals GPO & WEP, allowing full Social Security benefits. Retroactive Payments: Eligible recipients may receive lump sums dating back to Jan 2024. Apply immediately to maximize benefits. Tax Planning Alert: Lump sums are taxable with no withholding—prepare for potential Medicare IRMAA impacts. Action Steps for Advisors: Identify affected clients, review tax strategies, and ensure timely applications. Access resources and events related to this podcast. Note: If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, visit Libsyn (PFP) to access show notes with direct links: Guide: Social Security Planning Webcasts: How to Guide Clients Through the Maze of Social Security Decisions IRS Publication 915: Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits 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 at www.aicpa.org/pfp to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program. Subscribe to the PFP Podcast channel at Libsyn to find all the latest episodes or search “AICPA Personal Financial Planning” on your favorite podcast app.

    26 min

  7. FEB 7

    Estate Planning & Portability

    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 extension up to 15 months is possible. For smaller estates, a late portability election may be available for up to 5 years. Bypass Trust vs. Portability – While portability can double a surviving spouse’s exemption, a bypass trust protects future growth from estate taxes. The right choice depends on long-term tax projections. Estate Planning in 2025 & Beyond – The current $14 million exemption per person is set to sunset in 2026, potentially dropping to $7 million. Planners must prepare clients accordingly. CPAs Must Be Proactive – Even if a CPA isn’t directly engaged for estate tax returns, they should ask key questions about a client’s estate plan, especially if the surviving spouse's assets could exceed the future exemption limit. Resources & Links: AICPA PFP Section Email us your feedback Related video and slides: Estate planning deep dive (exclusive to PFP Section members) This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

    22 min

  8. JAN 24

    Advancing CPA Financial Planning: Insights from Leaders Brooke Salvini and Oscar Vives

    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 as Chair of the PFP Executive Committee and the dynamic changes during her leadership. Oscar highlights his leadership role in the PFS Credential Committee and his experience in financial planning since 2007. Major Milestones in 2024 Launch of the new CPA exam featuring Personal Financial Planning topics. Simplified pathways for earning the PFS credential, including express routes for experienced professionals. Outlook for 2025 and Beyond The impact of rapidly advancing technology and artificial intelligence in financial planning. Updated roadmaps to help CPAs incorporate financial planning into their services, regardless of their current practice model. Enhancements to PFP standards to keep pace with the evolving profession. Personal Financial Planning Engagements Redefining financial planning to include services such as retirement planning, tax strategies, and business structure advice. Addressing misconceptions about investment management as a barrier to financial planning. Exciting Developments for CPA Financial Planners The upcoming PFP Advanced Conference, returning in January 2026, blending the best of previous summits and conferences. Resources available at AICPA.org/PFP, including standards, templates, and the updated PFP roadmap for 2025. Resources Mentioned: Visit aicpa.org/PFP for tools, resources, and updates. Understanding and applying the statement on standards in PFP services SSPFPS Pre-Engagement Checklist Explore the pathways to earn the PFS designation. PFS Credential PFS Infographic  PFP/PFS infographic Review the tax and planning calendar for quarterly service opportunities. Digging Deeper with your clients This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com

    25 min
See All (315)

4.6
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

Welcome to the AICPA Personal Financial Planning Section podcast. Follow us to receive unlimited access to free podcasts from nationally known experts on topics such as retirement, estate, tax, investment planning, and more. Visit us online at aicpa-cima.com/pfp to join our community and gain access to valuable member-only benefits.

Information

  • Creator
    AICPA & CIMA
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    315
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©2024 Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP)

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada