The older you get, the more you wish and can help your parents with complex matters, such as estate planning. While it can be unusual, it’s beneficial to know if your parents have drafted crucial documents for their estate plan. However, you need to approach the conversation carefully.
Here are three tips to help you when talking to your parents about estate planning:
1. Include your siblings in the conversation
If you have siblings, they should be present when you talk to your parents about matters concerning estate planning. This eliminates the chances of their will being contested on the grounds of undue influence. It will be best to agree on what you will discuss beforehand to be on the same page during the meeting.
2. Ask your parents about what they have handled so far
When you talk to your parents about estate planning, you should not assume they have not started. Instead, ask what they have already done and if they need help accessing any professional services. However, if your parents say they haven’t started, do not act concerned. Find out why they haven’t done so and ask if they need help.
3. Tell them the reason for your concerns
Your parents may want to know why you are discussing their estate plan now. If you or one of your siblings has seen a scenario where a parent became incapacitated or died, and the family went through a hard time, you can tell them so. Or, maybe you are just concerned because your parents are agig. Either way, they should know you are asking just because you care about their true wishes being fulfilled.
Talking to your parents about estate planning can be challenging, but it’s necessary. You should also help them get legal guidance to draft documents that reflect their wishes.