Standard Owner Benchmark - STEP

STEP, which stands for the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, is an international professional organization consisting of legal professionals, accountants, trustees, and other professionals who specialize in assisting families with estate planning and wealth management. The organization was founded with the objective of establishing and upholding high professional standards, influencing public policy, advancing education, and fostering global connections among practitioners in the field.

One of the primary goals of STEP is to inspire confidence in families as they make plans for their assets across generations. This is achieved through the promotion of expertise, professionalism, and ethical conduct among its members. Full members of STEP, known as TEPs (Trust and Estate Practitioners), are recognized as subject-matter authorities on a global scale. Their credentials and expertise undergo verification, ensuring that clients can trust in their knowledge and abilities.

The core values of STEP revolve around community, collaboration, integrity, and continual learning. The organization recognizes the importance of embracing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). By welcoming a range of experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints, STEP believes that it can enhance its understanding of its members and their clients. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that the organization's standards remain internationally recognized and that it continues to evolve and improve.

STEP encourages its members to contribute their unique perspectives and expertise to benefit the organization, its members, and their clients. By fostering an open and accepting environment, STEP aims to leverage the diverse contributions of its members to advance its mission and serve the needs of families in planning their assets effectively.

In summary, STEP is an international professional organization that brings together legal professionals, accountants, trustees, and other experts in trust and estate planning. Through its focus on professional standards, education, and global connections, STEP aims to instill confidence in families as they navigate the complexities of wealth management and future planning.