Why a CEPA?

A Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) will help you acquire key information to make informed decisions and maximize your after-tax proceeds when you exit your business.

 
 
Boardroom meeting with business advisors and company leadership discussing exit strategy, enterprise value growth, and transition planning

How a CEPA can help

A CEPA can help you:

  • Articulate and align your personal, business and financial goals.

  • Maximize your enterprise value.

  • Minimize taxes.

  • Identify and capitalize on timing opportunities.

  • Resolve key issues by using wise guidance and solutions.

 
 

Certification Requirements

Education

CEPA professionals must complete a comprehensive five-day course offered by the Exit Planning Institute. Every three years, CEPAs must complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education to maintain their certification.

Examination

Participants must pass a four-hour proctored exam covering topics such as goal assessment, business valuation, value enhancement, exit options analysis, transaction structuring, tax planning, and working effectively as a team with other key advisers.

Experience

Prior to entering the CEPA program, advisers must have at least five years of experience working with business owners in a professional adviser capacity.

Ethics

CEPA practitioners must abide by a strict code of ethical conduct that sets forth professional responsibilities to business owners, the public, and their clients.

 
 

What to Expect from a CEPA

A Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) brings a disciplined, owner-centric approach to value enhancement and transition planning. You can expect a CEPA to engage deeply - asking strategic questions that uncover your business and personal objectives, financial goals, risk tolerance, transition timeline, and long-term legacy priorities.

Unlike general advisors who skim the surface, a CEPA applies a structured methodology that dives into the complexities of exit strategy—from operational readiness to personal wealth alignment. The more insight we gain, the more precise and impactful the plan. The outcome: a tailored exit strategy designed to optimize value—for you, your stakeholders, and your future.