A Holiday Moment to Talk About the Future

Nearly 55% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or estate plan in place, and when no clear plan exists, probate can consume 3–7% of an estate’s value and stretch on for months or even years. More than half of families without an estate plan report disputes after a loved one’s death. These numbers show how important it is to have conversations that bring clarity, care, and peace of mind.

The holidays are one of the few times multiple generations gather around the same table. Between shared meals, familiar stories, and treasured traditions, these moments are rich with connection. And while estate planning isn’t a warm and fuzzy topic, the comfort of family can make it easier to gently open the door to meaningful conversations about the future.

Bringing it up doesn’t mean holding a formal meeting or shifting the celebration into something heavy. Often, the best time is during a quiet moment — a walk, a car ride, or while cleaning up after a meal — when everyone feels relaxed.

Questions Adult Children Can Ask Their Parents

These conversations help avoid confusion later and ensure everyone understands your parents’ wishes:

• 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 Parents Can Ask Their Adult Children

These questions encourage the next generation to think ahead and prepare for life’s uncertainties:

• 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?

Why Estate Planning Matters

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. It’s about taking care of the people you love most. It provides:

Control – choosing who will manage your finances, healthcare, and estate.
Clarity – removing guesswork during stressful moments.
Care – protecting children, dependents, and even pets.
Efficiency – reducing probate costs, taxes, and delays.
Legacy – passing down values, traditions, and stories along with assets.

When framed as a gift — an act of love and protection — these conversations feel less intimidating. The holidays, with their warmth and togetherness, offer the ideal backdrop to begin them naturally and gently.

If you’re unsure where to start or want help navigating these discussions, reaching out to a trusted advisor can make the process easier. A little clarity today can prevent confusion and heartache later — and that’s something everyone around the table can appreciate.