As the holiday season approaches, families gather to share meals, stories, and traditions, creating moments filled with emotional richness across generations. These gatherings are also an ideal opportunity to discuss the future, particularly estate planning. Although this topic can feel uncomfortable, addressing it during a quieter moment, like a walk, can bring peace of mind.

Nearly 55% of U.S. adults don’t have a will or estate plan in place. Without clear plans, probate can consume 3–7% of an estate’s value and drag on for months or years. Furthermore, 58% of families without an estate plan report conflicts after a loved one’s death. Read more

Questions Adult Children Can Ask Their Parents

Gently bringing up these questions can ensure a smoother path moving forward:

• 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

Creating a dialogue with these questions can lead to better preparedness for all:

• 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?

These conversations matter because they prevent confusion, legal disputes, and emotional pain later. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. It’s about:

• Control – deciding who will handle your finances, healthcare, and estate if you can’t.
• Clarity – making sure your loved ones know your wishes instead of leaving them to guess.
• Care – protecting minor children, adult dependents, or even pets with guardianship choices.
• Efficiency – avoiding unnecessary probate costs, taxes, and delays.
• Legacy – passing down not just assets, but values, traditions, and family stories.

Framing estate planning as a gift makes the conversation easier: it’s about caring for those you love most and removing future burdens. If you're unsure where to begin or need help, consider reaching out to a trusted advisor. Starting these discussions now can be a true gift of clarity and love.