If you have elderly parents, estate planning can be a difficult topic to discuss with them. Conversations related to death can be off-putting, and wills and trusts can be complex and overwhelming. However, talking about their estate plan is crucial to preventing sibling fights, saving money on taxes, avoiding a long probate process, and working with an attorney effectively. Here’s how to discuss this challenging topic. 

3 Tips for Discussing Estate Planning With Your Parents

1. Have Patience

Estate planning is a process and an ongoing conversation. Wait for the right time to bring it up, and understand that the discussion won’t be finished in a day or two; you’ll need to tackle the planning process a little at a time. Wait until you have privacy to bring up the topic; having others around can make your parents feel uncomfortable. 

2. Be Transparent

While discussing estate planning in private is crucial, you should also be transparent with the relevant parties. Include your siblings in the conversation so they don’t think you’re scheming or controlling. This will help you avoid disputes later on and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Your goal shouldn’t be to get details on your inheritance and how much you’ll receive; the idea is to understand what your parents want so you can ensure their wishes are fulfilled. 

3. Empathize & Listen

Keep in mind that estate planning is a difficult subject for most parents. The prospect of dying one day can be anxiety-inducing and scary. Think about how you would feel if you were in their position; this will help you remain compassionate, emphatic, and caring throughout the process. 

Listening is an excellent way to show empathy. Ask your parents to express their feelings, hear them out, and keep the atmosphere judgement-free. Regret, sadness, and fear are common emotions during the process, and it’s crucial to let them be expressed rather than denied. 

When you need an emphatic, caring, and reliable attorney, contact Vernau Law. Serving Licking County, OH, and the surrounding areas, their team has been helping families with estate planning for over a decade. They will help you save money on taxes, prevent future conflict between siblings, and understand every aspect of wills and trust. Call (740) 587-2637 or head to their website to schedule a free consultation with an attorney.