What is a TEP?

18 May 2026

Our managing director Eloise Herdman holds the title of “TEP” (Trust and Estate Practitioner) as a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) since 2021. This blog explains what a TEP is, and why it is of benefit to our clients.

Our managing director Eloise Herdman holds the title of “TEP” (Trust and Estate Practitioner) as a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) since 2021. This blog explains what a TEP is, and why it is of benefit to our clients.

What is STEP?

STEP is a global professional body which is comprised of accountants, lawyers, financial advisors and other professionals who help families plan for the future. STEP set high standards and offer training and education to their members; and TEPs are recognised internationally as experts in their field.

Why should you use a TEP?

To qualify as a TEP, an individual must have a combination of experience and specialist qualifications and be able to demonstrate significant involvement with estate administration (probate), estate planning, Trust management and administration, and knowledge of the related taxation.

TEPs are specialists in inheritance and succession planning and the title ensures that you are in the safest of hands. TEPs are members of STEP and are expected to show a significant commitment to their continued professional development in a professional area, and they must comply with an extensive code of professional conduct. They also have access to a global network of 20,000 other professionals, which brings you peace of mind.

What does a TEP actually do?

Some of the work a TEP can help you with is:

Drafting a Will or Trust
Drafting a Power of Attorney
Offering advice on protecting your business
Offer advice on provision for vulnerable persons
Administering an estate, whether a person passes away with a Will, or without a Will

Why is being a TEP held in such high regard?

A TEP has chosen to undertake a specialist qualification in estate administration, taxation, estate and Trust accounting and drafting of Trusts. They are established experts in high net worth estates and complex wealth preservation. They are expected to keep their knowledge up to date to maintain their TEP status and they must complete ongoing training and professional development. Further, Will writing and estate planning can often be undertaken by someone with minimal experience and train. The STEP Code of Professional Conduct is something a TEP must adhere tom meaning they must act with high integrity, transparency and competency. Our Managing Director Eloise Herdman holds the following qualifications with STEP:

Advanced Certificate in Taxation of Trusts and Estates (England and Wales)
Advanced Certificate in Will Preparation
Advanced Certificate in Administration of Estates
Advanced Certificate in Trust and Estate Accounting
Advanced Certificate in Administration of Trusts

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