Free Educational Webinar · Monday, November 9 · 11:30 AM ET
Will or Trust? Building an Estate Plan That Works for Your Family
Join Black Diamond Financial Solutions for a plain-English look at what a will and a revocable living trust each do, where they differ, and how to make sure your accounts actually match your wishes.
Can't make it live? Register anyway and we'll send you the replay.
Reserve your free seat
Free. About one hour. Monday, November 9 at 11:30 AM ET.
Why attend
Signing the documents is only the beginning
Most people know they should have an estate plan. Fewer know whether they need a will, a trust, or both — or whether the plan they already have will actually do what they expect.
A will and a revocable living trust serve different roles. The right choice depends less on how much you own and more on your family, your property, and how you want an inheritance managed. This session walks through those differences so you can have a more informed conversation with your attorney and advisor.
What You'll Learn
In this session, you'll learn:
Will vs. trust, side by side.
What each document can and can't do — from directing assets to naming guardians for minor children.
What probate really involves.
Why a will alone doesn't avoid probate, and why avoiding probate doesn't eliminate settlement work.
Planning for incapacity.
Who manages your finances and healthcare decisions if you can't, and the documents that make that possible.
Controlling how heirs receive assets.
How an inheritance can be paid out over time, for specific purposes, or by age and milestone.
Why funding matters.
A trust only controls the assets placed in it. Learn what to retitle and what to leave in your name.
Coordinating beneficiaries.
How retirement accounts, life insurance, and TOD/POD accounts fit with your will or trust.
When a will-based plan may be enough.
A trust isn't the default answer for every family.
Agenda
What we'll cover
- 01
What an estate plan needs to accomplish
- 02
A will vs. a revocable living trust
- 03
Probate and privacy: what to expect
- 04
Planning for incapacity
- 05
Deciding how and when heirs receive assets
- 06
When a trust may be worth considering — and when a will may be enough
- 07
Funding your trust and coordinating beneficiaries
- 08
Questions to take home, plus live Q&A
This webinar is for you if:
- You don't have an estate plan yet, or haven't reviewed yours in years
- You have a will and wonder whether you also need a trust
- You have a trust but aren't sure it was ever fully funded
- You own real estate in more than one state
- You have minor children, a blended family, or a beneficiary with special needs
- You want an heir to receive support over time rather than a lump sum
- You want to make things easier for the people who will handle your affairs
Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. The right plan depends on family circumstances, not net worth.
Your presenter
Joseph McGloin
Associate Advisor, Black Diamond Financial Solutions
Joe helps individuals and families understand estate planning concepts and how they support long-term financial and family goals.
Common questions
Before You Register
Is the webinar really free?
Yes. There's no cost and no obligation.
Will there be a replay?
Yes. Everyone who registers will receive a link to the recording after the event.
Can I ask questions?
Absolutely. Ask during the live Q&A.
Do I need an estate plan already to attend?
No. The session is designed for people at every stage, from just getting started to reviewing an existing plan.
Will you give advice about my specific situation?
This is an educational session. For guidance on your own plan, we encourage you to speak with an estate planning attorney and your financial advisor.
Can I bring my spouse or a family member?
Yes. Estate planning works best when the people involved understand the plan. Feel free to watch together.
Give your family a clear path forward
An effective estate plan brings your documents, accounts, and wishes together. Spend an hour with us and leave with the questions that matter most for your family.
Monday, November 9 · 11:30 AM–12:30 PM ET · Free
This webinar is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal or tax advice. Black Diamond Financial Solutions does not provide legal services. Estate planning laws vary by state; please consult a qualified estate planning attorney and tax professional regarding your individual situation.
Questions? Call (302) 265-2236.