American Heart Association Hosts Free Estate Planning Webinar to Address Critical Gap in Will Preparation

New research reveals a significant disparity between Americans' recognition of estate planning importance and their actual preparation, with 83% acknowledging its value but only 31% having a will, leaving families vulnerable to legal complications and financial stress. According to the Trust & Will 2025 estate planning report, this gap exposes millions to potential hardships during already difficult times.

The American Heart Association is addressing this critical issue by hosting a free one-hour webinar on Wednesday, August 27, at 2 pm ET, as part of National Make-a-Will Month. The session will feature nationally recognized estate planning professionals Lindsey Weinberg, Esq., estate planning attorney and partner at The Laiderman Law Firm, and Andrew Fussner, Esq., national vice president of estate settlement at the American Heart Association.

Lee Shapiro, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that estate planning ensures individuals' voices are heard, supports loved ones, and allows for leaving a legacy that reflects personal values. The webinar provides participants with practical knowledge and tools to take this crucial step toward financial security.

Attendees will learn to debunk common estate planning myths, create plans that reflect personal values, and avoid costly mistakes that could burden their families. The session is designed to equip participants with the clarity and confidence necessary to make informed decisions about their financial future and legacy planning. All registrants will receive free educational materials and complimentary, no-obligation estate preparation tools.

The Heart Association also provides additional free online planning tools through FreeWill, enabling anyone to create a legally binding will in approximately 20 minutes. This accessibility addresses one of the primary barriers to estate planning completion.

Planned giving through wills, trusts, or other estate plans supports the American Heart Association's 2028 Impact Goal, driving innovative breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, public policy, and quality of care. Donors who include charitable giving in their estate plans are recognized as members of the prestigious Paul Dudley White Legacy Circle, part of the Cor Vitae Society named after one of the Heart Association's visionary founders.

This initiative represents a significant step toward closing the estate planning gap that affects millions of American families. By providing free, accessible education and tools, the American Heart Association helps individuals protect their loved ones from unnecessary legal delays, unexpected costs, and emotional stress while simultaneously supporting cardiovascular health research and community wellness programs nationwide.