The End of Life Talk Is One of Estate Planning’s Necessary Evils

Estate planning is a difficult process no matter the circumstances. And end-of-life conversations with loved ones are probably the most uncomfortable aspect of that process. They require you and your loved ones to take a sober look at your life circumstances and mortality. Yet as difficult as such conversations can be, they can help avoid stress and heartache later on. Clearly conveying your wishes concerning medical treatment, your funeral, and disposition of your assets will help loved ones avoid the stress and burden of putting your affairs in order after you’ve become incapacitated or die. Topics should include who should be notified of your death, wishes concerning funeral and burial, where your important documents are kept, accessing passwords and usernames, and how you want your remaining assets distributed after your death.

For great insights and tips on end-of-life conversations, please see Barbara Bates Sedoric, The Critical Importance of End-Of-Life Conversations, Wealthcare, October 13, 2015