• 1.5 CFP^® CEs with completion of the associated CFP^® quiz, OR
• Provide your CRD number in the pre-course survey and earn 1.5 CFP^® CEs and 1.5 IAR CEs with completion of the associated CFP^®/IAR quiz.

This program will cover the essential elements of special needs financial planning and the ethical challenges that can be encountered when implementing them. Advisors will learn the differences between special needs planning and traditional financial planning. Over 20% of families in the country include a member with a disability, making this material an essential resource. It empowers advisors to meet their clients’ needs with professionalism, sensitivity, and a commitment to inclusion.

1. Understand the issues that are unique to families with loved ones with disabilities and be more able to serve them professionally regarding their needs now and in the future.
2. Learn the value of government benefits that are available to individuals with disabilities and be able to assist their clients in obtaining them with a high degree of professional responsibility and success.
3. Be able to differentiate between special needs trusts and ABLE accounts, allowing for client benefits to be maximized.
4. Increase their knowledge of future care planning for clients with disabilities, which will allow the clients to live with more independence and security for the rest of their lives, and for their loved ones to understand this process.

Michael Walther CPA/PFS, CFP^®, CFA^®
President of Oak Wealth Advisors

Mike Walther has a brother on the autism spectrum, which has shaped his lifelong commitment to serving families with special needs. After nearly two decades as a fiduciary financial advisor to high-net-worth families, he founded Oak Wealth Advisors in 2008—a national firm that has since expanded to three locations. Mike’s passion lies in sharing his knowledge and experience to enhance the quality of life for families who have loved ones with disabilities.

Mike holds the CPA/PFS, CFP^®, and CFA^® designations. He was the first financial advisor in Illinois admitted to the Academy of Special Needs Planners (ASNP). Mike founded and leads the Special Needs Planning subject matter study group for the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA). He is also a member of the NAPFA DEI Committee. In 2023, Oak Wealth Advisors was recognized by NAPFA with its Excellence in DEI Award for mid-sized firms. Mike Walther received his BS degree in Economics and MBA with a concentration in Accounting from Vanderbilt University.