One of the most common reasons that people neglect the estate planning process is because they don’t wish to discuss the topic of death.
It can certainly feel morbid and very difficult to talk to your loved ones about what might happen if you are no longer around but it can simultaneously be one of the most powerful gifts that you give them.
Recognizing your own value of doing death planning, if you can get through a few uncomfortable conversations, will help set your loved ones up to know exactly what to anticipate when you pass away.
Whether it’s sharing how to find your estate paperwork, keeping them abreast of important individuals like your CPA or your estate planning attorney, or explaining how to locate safety deposit boxes or file a life insurance claim form with the company with whom you own a policy, you can save your loved ones from difficult decisions at the same time they are mourning your loss.
Certainly some of these steps can be uncomfortable and difficult but it is far easier for your loved ones to approach this subject now and understand your wishes so that they can carry out the management of your estate appropriately.
Just as you would plan for what happens to your assets after you pass away, you can also ensure that you and your loved ones are protected while you’re still alive. Whether you’re hoping to ensure that you appoint the right people with power of attorney abilities or need to have a plan in place to create a trust or qualify for Medicaid benefits, it’s helpful to speak with a trusted estate planning lawyer.
