More than at any other time of year, the holidays bring our friends and families together to share with one another the joys of the season. While estate planning may not be the most popular topic, and people tend to avoid conversations referring to “when I die,” having the family gathered together makes this a perfect time to make your wishes clear.
We recommend taking some time with your family members gathered around you this week to talk honestly about your wishes for your estate and your hopes for their futures. Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Express to them the legacy that you hope to leave behind and the ways in which you would like them to continue that legacy. Express your desires for your treatment and care as you age and how you would like important matters handled. Tell them where the important documents reside. Make certain they know where your Living Trust is kept and that they should contact MH after your death to ensure all matters are handled correctly. Inform them of what you would like them to do with your various accounts and assets. Make sure they know that you have a list with access information for all your accounts in your safe or safety deposit box – and how to access those. If there are special items you wish certain beneficiaries to have, now is the time to make sure they know what to expect.
Most families don’t get regular opportunities to meet together, especially as the family grows and each of your children now have their own children. Take this special time together to discuss the future and ensure your legacy is carried on according to your wishes. And, above all, make sure to express your love, appreciation and hopes for them. Those are the memories that they will cherish forever.
Happy holidays to you and yours!
This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney in your community who can assess the specifics of your situation.
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