These 3 Events will help Montanans to Better Understand Estate Planning in 2025

AARP Montana hosts Tele Town Hall series on estate planning with educator Dr. Marsha Goetting

Montana State University Extension is once again collaborating with AARP Montana for a three-part Tele Town Hall estate planning series starting in January and running through March of 2025. The popular series is presented by Dr. Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension family economics specialist and professor at MSU.

"For some Montanans, estate planning can be one of the most important and confusing decisions they make in their lives," said Dr. Goetting. "It raises important questions of personal legacy and how to assure the right people receive one’s property after death."

Shortly before each Tele Town Hall begins, AARP Montana will start calling out to Montana members. To join the live event, you only need to stay on the line when we call!

• January 14 10 AM: I know I should have a will, but what about a trust?
  Description: Understanding Wills and Trusts - In this Tele Town Hall, Dr, Goetting will explain the differences between wills and trusts, their benefits, and how they can be used together. We will discuss the importance of having a will and the basics of setting up a trust.
  
  • If you missed the event, listen to the replay here >>
    
    • Download free resource sheet: Wills and Trusts in Montana >>

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• February 4, 10 AM: What are some legal ways to avoid probate?
  Description: Avoiding Probate - In this Tele Town Hall, Dr. Goetting will discuss strategies to avoid probate, such as beneficiary designations, joint ownership, and transfer-on-death accounts. She will explain how these methods can save time and money for heirs.
  
  • If you missed the event, listen to the replay here >>
    
    • Download free resource sheet: Legal Ways to Avoid Probate in Montana >>

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• March 4, 10 AM: How can I plan for incapacity? 
  Description: Planning for Incapacity - In this Tele Town Hall, Dr. Goetting will cover the importance of powers of attorney, living wills, and healthcare directives. She will explain how these documents can ensure that a person’s wishes are followed if they become unable to make decisions for themselves.
  
  • If you missed the event, listen to the replay here >>
    
    • Download free resource sheet: How to Plan for Incapacity in Montana >>
      

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Additional ways you can participate:

• If you don’t receive a call, you may dial toll-free 855-962-1531 at 10 AM on the day of the call.
• You may stream the call live at fb.com/AARPMontana.
• Those unable to join the live events can listen to the recorded call on AARP Montana’s Facebook page at fb.com/AARPMontana. 

More information about Estate Planning for Montanans and all the resources available from MSU Extension can be found online at: https://www.montana.edu/estateplanning/. For those who do not have computer access, hard copies of online documents are available from your local County Extension or Reservation office. Find your local office here >>

Contact: Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension family economics specialist, marsha.goettting@montana.edu

Need help preparing End-of-Life documents? Montana Legal Services and the Legal Services Developer Program are there to help! You can get free or reduced fee access to an attorney who can help you with your end of life documents, like a will, power of attorney and living will. Download a flyer with more information >>