Are estate planning seminars worth it?
Absolutely. Quality estate planning seminars provide valuable education on minimizing taxes, avoiding probate, and structuring asset transfers efficiently. Our courses are complimentary, academic in nature, and taught by advisors with 100+ years of combined experience. Attendees learn practical strategies for beneficiary designations, titling, trusts, and the 98% of estate planning that doesn't require an attorney—knowledge that can save thousands in taxes and legal fees while protecting your legacy.
Is there any cost to attend these courses?
No. All Sentinel retirement and estate planning courses are completely complimentary with no cost to attend. There are no hidden fees, no sales presentations disguised as education, and no obligation created by attending. We offer these courses as a community service to help individuals make more informed decisions about their financial futures, regardless of whether they ever become clients.
Where are the courses held?
Courses are held at respected academic institutions across Connecticut and Maryland, including Wesleyan University in Middletown, Fairfield University in Fairfield, University of New Haven in West Haven, Tunxis Community College in Farmington, Goodwin University in East Hartford, and community centers in Bethesda, Ellicott City, Cooksville, and Shelton. Each location provides a professional classroom environment conducive to learning.
How long are the courses, and what topics are covered?
Each course runs approximately 2.5 hours (6:00 PM to 8:30 PM) and covers the foundations of sound retirement planning. Topics include retirement income strategies, tax-efficient withdrawal sequencing across account types, estate planning fundamentals, Social Security optimization, risk management, legacy planning, and Medicare decisions. All materials are educational and not personalized advice—you'll gain broad principles applicable to various retirement situations.
Do I need to have significant assets to benefit from these courses?
No. These courses are designed for anyone approaching or in retirement, regardless of asset level. The principles taught—tax-efficient withdrawals, estate titling, beneficiary coordination, risk management—apply whether you have $200,000 or $2 million. The educational content is structured to provide value to anyone seeking to make more informed retirement decisions and protect what they've worked hard to build.
Will attending create any obligation or advisory relationship?
No. Attendance at these seminars is purely educational and does not create any advisory relationship, fiduciary obligation, or expectation of future business. You are free to attend, learn, and apply the information as you see fit. There is no pressure to engage our services, and the course materials are designed solely for educational purposes, not as personalized financial advice.
How many people attend each course, and do I need to register?
Each course session is limited to approximately 12 attendees to ensure a quality learning environment and allow for questions. Due to limited space, registration is required and sessions fill up quickly. We recommend registering early to secure your preferred date and location. Some sessions have already closed bookings due to high demand.
Can I bring a spouse or partner to the course?
Yes. We strongly encourage couples to attend together, as retirement and estate planning decisions affect both partners. The course content is designed to facilitate household-level planning discussions, and having both spouses present ensures you can review the strategies together and make coordinated decisions. Each registration can typically accommodate both partners—confirm when registering.