Why Digital Estate Planning is a Game-Changer for Financial Advisors

Published: July 10, 2025. Financial advisors face increasing pressure to differentiate their services and deepen client relationships. A recent study commissioned by Trust & Will and conducted by Talker Research underscores the transformative impact digital estate planning can have on advisory practices—driving significant business growth, enhancing client satisfaction, and bolstering retention.

The Power of Digital Estate Planning: Key Findings

Trust & Will's survey, conducted from June 6-24, 2025, polled 300 U.S. financial advisors, evenly split between those already offering estate planning services and those who do not. The results highlight how integrating digital estate planning can substantially benefit financial advisory firms:

• Client Satisfaction & Retention: Advisors reported notable increases in client satisfaction (59%) and retention (56%) after offering digital estate planning.

• Client Acquisition & Referrals: More than half of advisors (55%) noted an increase in client numbers, and 41% experienced more client referrals.

• Asset Growth: Advisors saw significant growth in assets under management (AUM) from both existing (44%) and new clients (42%).

Notably, 54% of advisors credited digital estate planning for an astonishing 70% increase in new client acquisition. Further, 28% of advisors reported a 90%+ improvement in client satisfaction and peace of mind due to digital estate planning.

Addressing Advisor Concerns and Encouraging Adoption

Despite these clear benefits, among the 150 advisors who do not currently offer estate planning, 41% cited a lack of knowledge about available digital estate planning solutions as their main barrier to adoption. Compliance and liability concerns were significant hurdles for 30%, while another 30% indicated plans to adopt estate planning solutions in the future.

Digital Estate Planning as a Distinctive Advantage

The ability to provide comprehensive estate planning services is becoming increasingly critical for financial advisors seeking to distinguish their practices. According to the survey, 61% of advisors who offer digital estate planning already leverage it as a key differentiator.

Furthermore, a strong majority (64%) reported feeling "very confident" in their ability to support clients' estate planning needs, demonstrating that incorporating digital estate planning not only enhances client relationships but also reinforces advisor confidence and professional capabilities.

Client Experiences as Reported by Advisors

Financial advisors reported that their clients primarily shared positive experiences with digital estate planning providers. Advisors noted client feedback highlighting increased peace of mind (49%), ease and simplicity of the process (48%), and expressed gratitude for the service (41%). Additionally, clients reported feeling more secure in their overall financial plan and experienced improved communication with their advisor (40% each), reinforcing the value and integration of digital estate planning in comprehensive financial planning services.

This comprehensive survey affirms that digital estate planning is no longer just an ancillary offering—it's becoming an essential component of successful advisory firms. Advisors who embrace these digital solutions position themselves at the forefront of client care, ultimately driving growth and ensuring long-term business success.

Methodology

This random double-opt-in online survey of 300 U.S. financial advisors, evenly split between 150 who currently offer estate planning services and 150 who have never offered estate planning services, was commissioned by Trust & Will and conducted by market research company Talker Research, in accordance with the Market Research Society’s code of conduct. Data was collected from June 6 to June 24, 2025. The margin of error is +/- 5.66 points with 95% confidence. This survey was overseen by Talker Research, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

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