On January 19th via Zoom: `Essentials of Estate Planning’

“Failing to plan is planning to fail.”

Sometimes attributed to Benjamin Franklin, sometimes to others, the root of the pithy saying isn’t nearly as important as whether you heed its wisdom.

With “Essentials of Estate Planning,” a retirement expert will be leading a Zoom-based presentation on Wednesday, January 19th to fill this vital gap in individuals’ knowledge of end-of-life preparation.

Hosted virtually by Wheaton Public Library, the free hourlong program led by Dr. Jim Flanagan of Bentron Financial Group begins at 7 p.m. To register, visit the library’s online calendar at https://wheaton.librarycalendar.com/events/aces-estate-planning. The library also may be contacted at 630-668-1374.

In the session, part of the library’s ACES: Aging & Caregiving Engagement & Support series, Flanagan will cover the estate planning process from beginning to end, including the need to plan, the most common planning techniques and the documents involved. The class will also explain the difference between a will and a trust while providing attendees an understanding of probate, wills, power of attorney for healthcare, power of attorney for financial matters, living trusts, and guardianship appointments.

By the end of the session, attendees will have gained a thorough understanding of the steps they need to take to protect their spouse and heirs.

Dr. Flanagan founded Bentron Financial Group in 2001. He has provided financial guidance to people at or near retirement age for over 30 years. In that time, he has become a nationally recognized expert on financial issues impacting older adults and late-life transitions.

He is the author of “Packing for Retirement: A Practical Guide to Prepare for Retirement at Any Age.” The book offers a comprehensive overview of the myriad facets of retirement planning.

In addition, he has attained certification as a Master Registered Financial Consultant, a distinction that reflects integrity and transparency in business and is achieved by fewer than one percent of financial professionals.

Flanagan’s charitable and volunteer work revolves largely around seniors. Since 2008, he has been a member of the Oak Park/River Forest Township Senior Services Committee. In 2010, he founded the Celebrating Seniors Coalition, a not-for-profit organization that provides seniors with emergency services and raises public awareness of issues affecting seniors in Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park.

The next Celebrating Seniors Week is from May 12-19, 2022. For more information about Celebrating Seniors, visit www.CelebratingSeniors.net. Bentron Financial Group can be reached at 630-505-8375 and is online at www.bentron.com.