Estate Planning Conversations at the Holiday Table

As the holiday season rolls in, families come together, sharing meals, laughter, and treasured stories. These gatherings offer an opportunity not just for connection, but also to discuss important future plans — like estate planning. While the topic might feel uncomfortable, discussing it now can lead to peace of mind down the road.

Statistics show that nearly 55% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or estate plan in place. Learn more about the importance of estate planning. Without a clear plan, probate can consume a significant portion of an estate's value and cause family disputes.

Starting the Conversation

Initiating these conversations doesn’t have to turn the holiday into a formal meeting. Consider bringing up these questions during a quiet walk or a private moment:

Questions for Adult Children to Ask Parents

• Do you have an up-to-date will or trust in place?
• Who have you chosen to make financial and medical decisions if you’re unable to?
• Have you shared your wishes for medical care and end-of-life planning?
• If something happened tomorrow, would we know where to find your important documents and accounts?
• Are there heirlooms or traditions you’d like us to know the stories behind?
• Do you feel confident that the people you’ve chosen to handle your affairs are still the right ones?

Questions for Parents to Ask Adult Children

• Do you know where to find my important documents in case of an emergency?
• Have you considered creating your own will or an estate plan?
• If you received an inheritance tomorrow, would you know what to do with it — or who to turn to for help?
• Are there family keepsakes or traditions you’d be heartbroken not to have carried forward?
• If you had to step in to help us — financially or medically — what support would you need?

Benefits of Estate Planning

Estate planning isn’t only for the wealthy. It’s about:

• Control – deciding who will handle your affairs if you can’t.
• Clarity – ensuring loved ones know your wishes.
• Care – protecting dependents and pets with guardianship choices.
• Efficiency – avoiding unnecessary probate costs and delays.
• Legacy – passing down assets, values, traditions, and stories.

Embrace these conversations as acts of love, giving your family clarity and reducing future burdens. If you’re unsure where to begin or need help, reach out to a trusted advisor for guidance.