Elayne Pisarik, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, CDMM, MS, M.Tax
Strategic Tax Analyst
With 3 degrees, 4 certifications and 33 years of experience, Elayne is among the industry's most highly qualified advisors.

Education
Bachelor of Science
University of Tennessee
Master of Science
University of Central Florida
Master of Taxation (M.Tax)
Nova Southeastern University
Professional Designations
Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)
CFP Board
Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®)
The American College
Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®)
The American College
Certified Daily Money Manager (CDMM)
AADMM
Investment Advisor Representative
U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC)
Professional Affiliations
National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA)
Registered Financial Advisor
Industry Experience
Years of Experience
Specializations
Advanced Tax Harvesting Strategies for Business Owners
Complex Trust & Estate Tax Minimization
Roth Conversion Optimization Analysis
Multi-Generational Wealth Transfer Tax Planning
Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) Exclusion Planning
Charitable Remainder Trust Tax Strategies
Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Tax Planning
Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) Strategies
Professional History

Strategic Tax Analyst
FirsTrust
Current
Provides advanced tax planning and analysis for high-net-worth clients, leveraging extensive expertise in tax law and financial planning.
Certified Financial Planner
Independent Practice
Previous
Built a successful independent practice providing comprehensive financial planning and tax services to families and business owners.
Financial Advisor
Financial Services Industry
Career Start
Began career in financial services, developing expertise across insurance, investments, and tax planning.
Interview with Elayne
You've achieved quite an academic resume, including a master's degree in engineering - how does this lend to tax planning?
My engineering background taught me to approach complex problems systematically and analytically. Tax planning requires that same methodical thinking - breaking down complicated situations into manageable components and finding optimal solutions within regulatory frameworks.
What sets your approach to planning apart?
I believe in comprehensive, integrated planning. Every decision - whether it's about investments, insurance, estate planning, or taxes - affects the others. I help clients see how all the pieces fit together and make decisions that optimize their entire financial picture.
You mention tax planning is a particular passion. Why is that?
Tax planning offers immediate, tangible results. When I can help a client legally minimize their tax burden, they see the benefit right away. It's rewarding to know that the strategies we implement are directly improving their financial well-being.
What's the most rewarding part of your work?
Building long-term relationships with families and watching them achieve their goals. Some clients I've worked with for decades - I've helped them save for their children's education, plan for retirement, and now I'm working with the next generation.
How do you approach working with different generations of clients?
Every generation has unique perspectives and priorities. I listen carefully to understand what matters most to each client, whether they're focused on growth, preservation, or legacy planning. My job is to help them achieve their specific goals, not impose a one-size-fits-all approach.
What common problems do you see families run into?
Often, families haven't had open conversations about money and legacy. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. I encourage families to communicate openly about their values and goals, which helps create plans that everyone understands and supports.
What principles guide your work at FirsTrust?
Integrity, thoroughness, and putting clients first. As Fee-Only advisors, we have no conflicts of interest. Our only goal is to provide the best possible advice for our clients' unique situations.
What excites you most when working with clients?
I love the problem-solving aspect. Every client's situation is unique, and finding creative solutions that meet their needs is intellectually stimulating and professionally satisfying.
