Leaders Blog

Estate planning continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to bring important developments that financial professionals cannot afford to overlook. From tax updates to shifting rules around inherited retirement accounts, staying current is essential to delivering meaningful value to clients.

NAIFA’s upcoming webinar, "Social Security Literacy and Income Planning: The Missing Link in Insurance and Financial Advice", focuses on one of the most influential yet frequently oversimplified components of retirement planning.

New to the Chapter Playbook this week, the 2026 Business Implementation Plan! The plan centers on three pillars: Strength, Impact and Awareness.

The NAIFA Certified Leadership Board designation is awarded to NAIFA Chapters upon completion of a live presentation of NAIFA’s 90-minute training program entitled “Empowering Chapter Leaders” by the President, President-Elect, and at least 80% of the Chapter’s Board.

NAIFA-Utah was recently spotted on LinkedIn for their What's Working Wednesday! Looking for fresh ideas and practical ways to grow your business? Join NAIFA-Utah every 2nd Wednesday for the Chapter’s Lunch-n-Learn!

Here is what you can expect:

 ✅ Learn what’s working from fellow professionals
✅ Share ideas and best practices
✅ Network with like-minded advisors
✅ Occasionally earn CE credit
✅ Walk away with actionable strategies to grow your business

Bring a non-member guest and their lunch is covered! 

Great Chapters are built by prepared leaders. NAIFA’s Blueprint Chapter Leadership Training equips Chapter leaders with the tools, clarity, and confidence needed to lead effectively and create long-term success.

The Paul Mills Scholarship program dates back to 1984 and was named in honor of the gentleman who served as the Society of FSP’s second executive vice president. From 1984 through 2012, Paul Mills Scholarships were awarded to FSP members in recognition of their service and to encourage the pursuit of lifelong professional education.

Join us on February 26 @ 4 p.m. Eastern to learn how! Back by popular demand, Corey Mathews, Vice President of Membership and Chapter Services, will be conducting our Q1 training webinar - “Building a Successful Membership Program.” After the webinar, resources will be posted in the Chapter Playbook for Chapters to reference.

Chapter Staff and Chapter Leaders from across NAIFA Nation met on February 5th, for the February Chapter Leaders Webinar. Attendees were able to hear the latest NAIFA updates and announcements! This month's Chapter Leaders Webinar featured:

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is reminding members that the deadline is approaching soon for one of NAIFA’s most prestigious honors. Now is the time to recognize outstanding peers who exemplify Terry’s commitment to NAIFA’s advocacy efforts, as well as characteristics of excellence, leadership, and service by submitting your nominations.

This award honors beloved NAIFA member Terry Headley, and highlights what it means to be a true citizen advocate and professional. NAIFA is proud to be the organization that champions and celebrates those who lead with purpose.

Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award
This award honors a NAIFA member whose political advocacy on behalf of the industry, financial professionals, and consumers reflects the dedication and influence of the award's namesake, Terry Headley. Recipients are lifelong defenders of the profession and embody NAIFA’s advocacy mission at the state and federal levels.

The following States have already submitted a nominee.  
Colorado | Florida x3 | Illinois x2 | Nebraska | New Jersey | North Carolina | Pennsylvania | South Carolina 

Please reach out to Shanika Thomas sthomas@naifa.org for more information.