Partners in planning
Think about estate planning as a collaborative process: you and your sibling can help another, your parents, and your family in general by coming together and drafting clear and strong estate plans. Think about saying the following:
- “We both know we have to start our estate plans, how about we do it together!”
- “I’ve been working on my estate plan and would love your input.”
- “I’d love to help you with your estate plan.”
Shared responsibilities
Talking about your parents and their estate plans as a shared responsibility can help show your sibling the importance of tag teaming estate planning tasks within your family.
- “How can we work together to help the parents create their estate plan?”
Express concern for your parents
You and your sibling both care about your parents which is why you can consider discussing your parents’ health with them, for instance. It’s normal to want support especially when it comes to estate planning. Think about leaning on your siblings and discussing the following:
- “If ever we have to make decisions about our parents’ health, I’d love to know what they would prefer.”
- “I’d love your help in asking the parents what kind of health decisions they prefer.”
Early financial planning
Approaching financial aspects early in estate planning with your sibling can lay a solid foundation. Discussing your parents' finances as part of the planning process provides valuable insights for making informed decisions. Consider initiating this dialogue with:
- "Understanding our parents’ finances is crucial for our estate plans. How about we delve into that together?"
- "Early financial planning can guide our decisions. Want to join forces and go through it as a team?"
- "I've started looking at our parents’ financial situation for our estate plans and would love your input?"
Talk about inheritance
Discussing inheritance with your sibling can be a great segue into larger . You can think about it with a touch of nostalgia, making it reminiscent of simpler times. Start by saying:
- “Remember when we used to trade candy on Halloween? Let’s chat about what we’d like to inherit – anything specific on your list?”
- “Let’s make the serious stuff a bit lighthearted – who gets what?”
Planning for the unexpected
Bringing up the importance of planning for unexpected events with your sibling emphasizes the need for a comprehensive estate plan. Share your concerns and initiate the conversation by saying:
- “Life is unpredictable. Let’s ensure we’re prepared for any curveballs. How about we plan for the unexpected in our estate plans?”
- “Talking about worst-case scenarios isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. Let’s discuss how we can plan for the unexpected together.”
Legacy and Family Heirlooms
Discussing family heirlooms can be a great segue into larger estate planning considerations. Consider starting the conversation with:
- “I’d really love grandma’s ring, are there any specific family heirlooms you’d like.”
- “I want to secure our family’s legacy and would love your help.”
Written by our partner Good Trust