
THE LIFESTEP PROCESS
GROW YOUR WEALTH,
PROTECT YOUR ESTATE
The LifeStep Process® uses customized life insurance as a tool to make the estate more tax efficient for both the client and his or her beneficiaries. It’s a method we’ve used for over 20 years to help high net worth Canadians protect their wealth, and as a way that enables advisors to enhance their practice’s service capabilities.
Developing a plan requires input from accountants, lawyers and doctors as well as an investment of time by the client and his or her family. The LifeStep Process keeps it organized and on course.
Attention to every detail ensures that the plan is built precisely to the client’s situation, implementation is streamlined, and the plan delivers results as promised year after year.
The 4 stages of the LifeStep Process® are:

1. THE DISCOVERY PROCESS
Fact finding and client qualificationThe Discovery Process pinpoints which clients have the most to gain from an insurance-based tax and estate plan. With the advisor’s input, we assess whether The LifeStep Process can create significant benefits for the client. There is no obligation and a client’s identity is not revealed to us during The Discovery Process.
Discover Stage
- Client profiling
- Client qualification
- Client anonymity
- No cost or obligation

2. THE STRATEGY BUILDER
Plan development and customizationThe Strategy Builder maps out the plan’s structure, cash flow and windup results in plain English. It shows the math and answers the questions clients and advisors need to know before deciding if an insurance-based plan is worth investigating and implementing.
We use the facts gained from The Preliminary Viewpoint along with advisor input to design the plan for the client’s unique business, personal and wealth transfer goals.
A plan takes about three weeks to prepare. Westward does not charge for the initial assessment. We only present it to the client if the advisor agrees that the plan offers significant benefits and further consideration is worthwhile.
Build Stage
- Build plan
- Advisor review
- Client review
- Engage to proceed

3. THE STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTOR
Policy approval and plan implementationA life insurance policy is at the heart of the plan. That’s why we go the extra mile to make sure each client receives the best coverage possible.
Westward takes care of the paperwork and keeps everything on track. We work with the client, the family members as well as the advisor and doctor to collect financial and health information and make sure the application is prepared perfectly.
As a result, a client often receives an offer in as little as two to three months, and can quickly begin to achieve their plan’s tax and estate benefits.
Implement Stage
- Underwriting
- Technical review
- Offer negotiation
- Implementation

4. THE PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZER
Ongoing plan management and reportingOn-going management ensures that each client’s plan delivers results as promised. The Performance Optimizer includes active management of the plan for as long as it is in force. Annual reviews measure performance so clients are never in the dark about whether their plan is achieving its goals. We also provide advisors with all the documents needed for tax reporting.
The LifeStep Process adapts to changing needs and circumstances. If tax laws change, a business is sold or new opportunities emerge, we recommend plan modifications to keep it on course.
Perform Stage
- Annual reviews
- Anniversary management
- Advisor web portal
- Client web portal

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THE WESTWARD EXPERIENCE
““Wayne is absolutely wonderful to deal with in general. We really value and trust his opinion and feel that he is trying to provide advice for what’s in our best interests. We don’t feel he’s trying to “sell” to us."”
AL, ClientVancouver, BC | Jul 2025
“It's always a pleasure working with you each year, knowing my insurance renewal will be handled flawlessly.”
PA, ClientEdmonton, AB | Jun 2025
“I've worked with you for years on my insurance planning and have always found you highly efficient—easy to reach, clear in your communication, and quick to follow up. You always keep me informed, even when there are delays. Excellent service!”
PA, ClientEdmonton, AB | Jun 2025
“Westward are fantastic at simplifying and explaining the entire insurance planning structure.”
MA, Client OfficeVancouver, BC | May 2025
“Westward's service has always been great! They were especially helpful when we had some timing issues around cashflow, which was greatly appreciated.”
BJ, AdvisorVancouver, BC | Apr 2025
“Westward can always be relied upon to provide meticulously organized, detailed and complete plan information.”
RC, AdvisorToronto, ON | Mar 2025
“I have always appreciated the Westward approach – it's proactive and thorough!”
EA, AdvisorVancouver, BC | Mar 2025
““I cannot speak highly enough of Westward's professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction.””
AR, ClientToronto, ON | Dec 2024
“Thanks for providing me with our October 31 fiscal year end corporate report so quickly. I recognize your service standard is to deliver by December 31 so receiving it on December 5 is really appreciated.”
CM, Client CFOToronto, ON | Dec 2024
“This plan review meeting was excellent. I obtained a lot of insights about the operation of the plan and the plan benefits.”
DH, ClientCalgary, AB | Nov 2024
“We give full credit to Westward for the meticulous attention given over the years to documenting the tracing of borrowed money. We are fortunate to have their support for the CRA audit of the loan carrying charges.”
DD, AdvisorVancouver, BC | Nov 2024
“Working with Westward has been a great experience. Their use of technology, like DocuSign, has really streamlined processes and made everything much easier.”
CC, ClientVancouver, BC | Nov 2024
“The support package we received from Westward to help us reply to CRA audit queries was over the top. It was incredibly thorough and complete, tracking the plan from day 1 to present day with supporting documentation. We really appreciate the investment you make in supporting the plan.”
DM, AdvisorToronto, ON | Sep 2024
“Westward’s guidance and support over the years has been much appreciated.”
RT, ClientCalgary, AB | Sep 2024
“Thank you for your AMT calculator. It is quick and easy, and the results are bang on with our own tax software.”
TC, PwCToronto, ON | Aug 2024
“When we implemented the plan in 2013, I was very skeptical that Westward would follow through with promises to manage the plan years down the road. You have proved me wrong and you have done an excellent job on that front.”
ES, Client CFOToronto, ON | Aug 2024
“Thank you so much for your help. We really appreciate the Westward level of service!”
AL, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Aug 2024
“My experience with Westward has been very positive, they've always given excellent guidance and responded promptly.”
TN, VP of FinanceVancouver, BC | Jul 2024
“Nothing but good things to say about Westward. Your team is very helpful in collecting information and documents from clients and providing us with the required insurance policy information. Makes our job a lot easier! Appreciate the communication and partnership.”
TD, Private BankerKelowna, BC | Mar 2024
“Thank you for your precious help and great communication.”
MP, ClientMontreal, QC | Mar 2024
“I have thoroughly enjoyed dealing with Westward. I am extremely grateful with how organized and prepared you always are. It makes my job much easier, which in turn makes it seamless for our mutual clients. I hope to continue our relationship for years to come.”
CM, Private BankerCalgary, AB | Mar 2024
“I always receive prompt responses with helpful answers and information. Excellent service!”
EJ, Client OfficeVancouver, BC | Mar 2024
“Always a great experience working with Westward. Your prompt responses and knowledge are always appreciated.”
JC, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Feb 2024
“I have found the services very good at Westward. Everything happens in a timely manner, no confusion when it comes to instructions. If I do have any questions, you are very approachable and reachable. I will always have a reply within 24 hours.”
CH, Client OfficeVancouver, BC | Feb 2024
“Just a quick note to say how much I appreciate your time and your expertise. Your knowledge of the subject matter is second to none and your presentation was excellent. Again, thank you for all your support.”
JY, ClientVancouver, BC | Feb 2024
“I really appreciate your summary emails and follow-up. Your team is great to work with.”
BS, Scotia Private BankerCalgary, AB | Feb 2024
“Thank you for delivering my plan’s annual report for the corporate year-end 3 weeks early. It is appreciated.”
SR, ClientEdmonton, AB | Jan 2024
“I admire the level of oversight and dedication Westward demonstrates in managing client loan facilities. The meticulous approach you bring to the table is impressive and greatly contributes to our shared objectives. Few of the advisors I work with have the level of oversight that I see with the Westward team.”
GC, Private BankerMontreal, QC | Dec 2023
“Thanks very much for the overview. Your quick response is really appreciated.”
CC, ClientMontreal, QC | Dec 2023
“I love the way Westward presents to the client and us. It keeps all parties on the same page.”
JH, Private BankerCalgary AB | Dec 2023
“Thank you so much for all your help, you’ve been amazing as always! I really appreciate how clearly you put it all together in the email for our mutual client, so they know exactly how to proceed.”
BS, Private BankerCalgary, AB | Dec 2023
“Westward’s process each year is straightforward, and you guys proactively let me know about things ahead of time.”
KO, CFOCalgary, AB | Dec 2023
“Timely and professional service. We appreciate working with you and your team.”
CM, ClientAbbottsford, BC | Nov 2023
“Your firm provides both the client and partners with the sequence of events, what is required of each party and the expected outcomes. The information provided to us is accurate and straight forward. If there needs to be a discussion about different outcomes then an answer is always supplied in a timely manner. You guys make my life easier so I am grateful to be able to continue to work with you and your firm.”
CD, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Nov 2023
“My experience with Westward has been great. Very responsive and clear instructions with requests”
EC, Scotia Private Banker | Nov 2023
“I thought the information and presentation you did was very useful, and helped me understand further the insurance plan. You and your team are always very helpful and quick to provide any information we need.”
KP, AdvisorKelowna, BC | Oct 2023
“Working with the team at Westward is wonderful. Communications and expectations are very clear.”
AL, Private BankerKelowna, BC | Oct 2023
“I really appreciate you pro-actively advising me of the loan terms available from other banks.”
JG, ClientVancouver, BC | Jul 2023
“Thank you for taking the time to meet with us. It helped us understand the process you are going through each year as well as updating us on the status of the policies. Much appreciated.”
JK, Client CFOVancouver, BC | Jul 2023
“Excellent summary of my plan and I appreciate the prompt response from Westward. It will be quite helpful in my meetings with RBC next week. Thanks!”
DD, ClientVancouver, BC | Jun 2023
“The material you provide is always very helpful. We appreciate your prompt responses.”
CS, AdvisorMarkham, ON | May 2023
“Your guidance and communication to our common clients explaining the loan management process and benefits is very hands on. There are no surprises or missing information and that makes the annual transactions easy to execute.”
CD, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Apr 2023
“We speak the same financial language so when I request a certain report or document you know what I want and are always prompt about getting it back to me. Your great record keeping and reporting to support loan disbursements and annual reviews lifts that weight off my back.”
CD, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Apr 2023
“I give my experience with Westward and The LifeStep Process a five star rating!”
DS, ClientVancouver, BC | Jan 2023
“You have been very helpful in clarifying certain aspects of my policy which were changing and confusing.”
DM, ClientToronto, ON | Jan 2023
“There is really only one Westward. Nobody does anything close to this anywhere. Impressive work. Thank you for your usual professionalism.”
PC, AdvisorMontreal, QC | Dec 2022
“Thank you very much for keeping me up to date about the bank loan option. It was very helpful when we met in September. It was also very interesting for my son. I wish you all the best for 2023.”
DC, ClientToronto, ON | Dec 2022
“Very well laid out. You are exceedingly good at your job. That is for sure.”
JY, ClientVancouver, BC | Nov 2022
“I have always had very positive experiences with you and all the crew at Westward. You provide the answers I need in a timely manner and I appreciate the interactions you have not only with me but with my accountant and lawyers as well. The plan that Westward developed for us is working well and meeting both our long and short term goals. I have no complaints and we greatly appreciate all your crew has done for us.”
MN, ClientVancouver BC | Nov 2022
“Thank you so much. I really appreciate you for providing the projected annual interest expense so quickly.”
RH, AdvisorVancouver, BC | Oct 2022
“Thanks for taking care of us and our contingent owner designations because it’s a hassle if it goes through the estate.”
HS, ClientVancouver, BC | Oct 2022
“My Account Manager at Westward is very patient, diligent, and polite. I’m not sure if I’d have the same tolerance for clients like me. Top marks for customer service!”
PG, ClientToronto, ON | Oct 2022
“Thanks to Westward and the RBC private banking team, another policy anniversary made simple!”
AM, ClientVancouver, BC | Oct 2022
“It has been a great experience dealing with Westward. Your Team is very organized, knowledgeable, professional and does a great job keeping clients on track and helping us complete our Annual Reviews on time. I wish all our clients dealt with you.”
CS, Private BankerKelowna, BC | Sep 2022
“Thank you for taking the time to go through my insurance structure again. I appreciate you including my son in the meeting. It was great to see you again.”
DC, ClientToronto, ON | Sep 2022
“Fantastic presentation, as always. This plan is a huge benefit to us and our estate. The family meeting was very beneficial and I really appreciate your input and support. We retreated after the meeting to the club and had a really productive family session that moved us ahead nicely and proved to me we are all on the same page. Thanks again.”
JY, ClientVancouver, BC | Sep 2022
“Westward laid out the steps involved in switching to a bank loan very well and in basic terms, which is what I needed.”
MV, ClientSurrey, BC | Sep 2022
“I pay Westward to manage my loan and the fee is well worth it. One thing I like is that they are bank agnostic, on top of what many lenders are offering, making sure that my loan is with the best lender.”
PC, ClientToronto, ON | Sep 2022
“I have really enjoyed working with Westward. Everyone at Westward I have dealt with has been professional, friendly and detailed oriented. Looking forward to our continued work together.”
LI, Private BankerToronto, ON | Sep 2022
“Thank you for your patience dealing with older clients like me!”
DC, Client (Age 73)Toronto, ON | Aug 2022
“As per usual, everything happened without a hitch. I appreciate your help with the process.”
RT, ClientCalgary, AB | Aug 2022
“We very much appreciate your excellent presentations of our plan. Every question we have is magically followed by the explanation on the next slide. Very easy to follow and understand.”
DW and LW, ClientSurrey, BC | Aug 2022
“All is good to date with the leveraged life insurance plan you launched for me in 2012. Thank you!”
BR, ClientSunshine Coast, BC | Aug 2022
“Thank you for Westward’s prompt response and assistance to coordinate with our mutual clients.”
JC, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Jul 2022
“The information Westward provide is great, I have never seen that before. The tracking of all the transactions was great to see.”
JJ, Scotia Estate and Trust ConsultantCalgary, AB | May 2022
“Thank you for your timely, careful and diligent handling of your client's claim. It has been a pleasure working with you.”
Oxfam, Manager of PhilanthropyOttawa, ON | Mar 2022
“You have a very efficient, client oriented team. Your process is very streamlined. Great job!”
NR, Private BankerEdmonton, AB | Feb 2022
“We very much appreciate all the support you provide, and your prompt response and assistance when required!”
SC & SE, Wealth ManagersVancouver, BC | Feb 2022
“I just want to express my sincere thanks again for your help. I didn’t realize I would be dependant on so many people as I got older and I really appreciate you taking the time to help.”
Len Remple, ClientVancouver, BC | Feb 2022
“The annual process on my side has become so routine, that it’s relatively easy to do. A few signatures, a few cheques and the courier comes and gets it. The financial summary, especially the net cash effect is very helpful.”
CC, ClientVancouver, BC | Jan 2022
“Very positive experience with Westward. Very pro-active and follow up frequently with respect to deadlines. Communication and explanations are always very clear. Thanks for your support!”
FC, Client VP FinanceToronto, ON | Jan 2022
“Thank you very much for all of your help and being so on top of all of the details!”
MM, Private BankerVancouver, BC | Dec 2021
“Thank you very much for all your assistance, everything worked out really well. Death catches you off guard and I was very appreciative of all your help.”
GB, ClientVancouver, BC | Dec 2021
“I appreciate how you always respond quickly. Your explanations and direction are always excellent. I appreciate your patience with my questions about the plan. You have done very well again this year.”
SA, ClientSurrey, BC | Dec 2021
“Everything to process our death benefit claim was done in a fast and efficient manner. I rate excellent.”
TN, Client ControllerVancouver, BC | Dec 2021
“Westward has been amazing over the years, always showing lots of patience with me, especially with my repetitive questions. Thank you!.”
LL, Client ControllerVancouver, BC | Dec 2021
“Thank you for following up and ensuring the transaction follows our plan.”
NM, CFOVancouver, BC | Nov 2021
“Wonderful! I appreciate the information you provide as it helps us plan dividends from the holding company. Thanks again.”
KP, Tax AdvisorKelowna, BC | Nov 2021
“Thank you for the very informative presentation. It is extremely comforting to know the family has advisors that know the insurance plans as well as your team has demonstrated.”
NM, Client Family OfficeVancouver, BC | Nov 2021
“I’ve found your firm to be very organized and efficient to work with, and the communication from your team to be excellent. We welcome the opportunity to work more closely.”
AM, Private BankerVictoria, BC | Nov 2021
“Thank you for the excellent plan review. It is performing much better than we originally expected when we first set it up.”
AL, Client Family OfficeVancouver, BC | Oct 2021
“Westward is outstanding! Your presentations are extremely helpful and you have an amazing ability to make something so complex understandable. You help us every step of the way when we have to execute annually and make it straight forward for us. Thanks so much again and we look forward to the continued partnership.”
MH, Client CFOWindsor, ON | Oct 2021
“Thanks for the September 30 policy statements. You are a miracle worker – it is only October 1!”
JH, AdvisorVancouver | Oct 2021
“You guys are great! You always provide clear directions and make sense of all the small details and I really appreciate it.”
BV, ClientSarnia, ON | Oct 2021
“We have been completing our plan anniversary transactions for many years now. The process is very efficient.”
TC, ClientVancouver | Sep 2021
““The processes are very well laid out and understandable. The loan renewal package has clear instructions. The final year end package is easy to follow from a personal and corporate perspective regarding the inputs needed for the T1 and the company’s accounting records.””
LB, AdvisorVancouver | Sep 2021
““Your team is great to deal with. Everyone is always quick to respond and you all do a great job of communicating expectations.””
JS, Private BankerOsoyoos, BC | Sep 2021
““We very much appreciate your annual policy management services. You do such a good job and take away all the stress.””
JD, ClientVancouver | Sep 2021
““Your services are always good, giving us clear instructions well ahead of the due date so that we have plenty of time to prepare it; also providing prompt responses to our financial/tax related requests.””
JG, ClientVancouver | Sep 2021
“I found the presentation informative and easy to follow.”
KM, Client's executorSurrey | Aug 2021
“Everything about the management of my account is perfect!”
HS, ClientVancouver | Aug 2021
“Experience has been very good. No issues on this end. The team has always been available to answer questions and assist with analysis we need to make longer term decisions.”
DH, ClientOntario | Aug 2021
“Doing fine, plan is in place and functioning as it should. Its cash flow positive overall”
AA, ClientVancouver, BC | Aug 2021
“Your firm has a fantastic process for managing client loans. Your systems are really impressive. It’s a pleasure working with you.”
DR, Scotia Private BankerOntario | Jul 2021
“Thank you for the very clear presentation. The plan changes you propose are attractive and it looks like everything is moving in the right direction.”
LM, ClientVancouver, BC | Jun 2021
““Just wanted to thank you for a job well done on the call with the bank. We felt that you did an excellent job and that the bankers really got a confident vibe from you and for the plan. Thanks again much appreciated.””
DD, ClientVancouver, BC | Apr 2021
“Thanks for the detail. Really appreciate the quick response and great service.”
LH, ClientAbbotsford, BC | Feb 2021
VIEWPOINTS
Westward’s opinion on timely and topical issues related to tax and estate planning.
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