When you get older, discussing crucial topics, such as estate planning, with your parents becomes necessary. But what if your parents have not brought up the subject? Can you ask them to talk about their estate plan?
It’s not uncommon for children to ask their parents if they have drafted a will. However, with the sensitivity of such a conversation, you need to have a few tips up your sleeve when initiating it. These include:
Involve your siblings
If you have siblings, you should involve them in the discussion. Tell them you wish to initiate the estate planning conversation with your parents and have them participate in every step. Agree on the topics to cover, the questions to ask and when to hold the talk.
Inform your parents about the talk
Your parents need to know that you would like to talk to them beforehand. They should know what the meeting will be about and that you will be attending it with your siblings. Further, inform them of the chosen date to confirm if it works with them as well.
Choose a suitable location
Choose a calm environment for the discussion. The family home can be a great option.
Tell them the reasons for the discussion
Open the discussion by informing your parents of the reasons for having it. Perhaps you wish to know if they have made plans to protect their legacy, if they need any professional help, if you or any of your siblings have a role in the estate plan and would like to start preparing and so forth.
Let your parents guide the discussion
Allow your parents to run the meeting. Let them tell you what they have done and if they need help. They should also decide the details they want to keep private.
Discussing estate planning with your parents can be challenging. Learn more to have a productive conversation.