How to Talk to Your Parents About an Estate Plan

 Posted on February 18, 2025 in Estate Planning

Bringing up the topic of estate planning with your parents can be very uncomfortable. No one likes to think about end-of-life decisions, and many people avoid these conversations because they do not know where to start or because they are afraid they may come off as overly eager about their inheritance. 

However, having a strong estate plan is not just about money. It is about making sure your parents’ wishes are honored, reducing stress for family members when your parents pass, and avoiding unnecessary legal complications. Our Illinois estate planning attorney at The McCormick Law Firm, LLC can help your parents create an estate plan that is as detailed or simple as they need it to be. Call us today. 

What is an Estate Plan? 

Estate planning includes several important documents. A will states who will inherit property and who will be responsible for managing the estate. Trusts are more complex, but still serve the fundamental purpose of protecting someone’s property and legacy, especially by keeping valuable assets out of the probate process. 

Beyond helping someone manage their affairs after they pass, a strong estate plan also has measures in place for end-of-life care. An advanced directive allows someone to make healthcare decisions for another person who becomes unable to do so. A power of attorney gives someone the ability to handle financial or legal matters on behalf of another person. Without these documents, families may face lengthy and expensive legal proceedings, and decisions may not align with what a loved one would have wanted.

How Should I Talk to My Parents About Their Will? 

Try to have the discussion when everyone is calm and able to focus and when there is an appropriate level of privacy. For this reason, bringing up estate planning during a holiday meal or a family gathering is not usually the best approach. 

Instead, find a quiet moment where you can speak privately and without distraction. Focus on keeping the conversation productive and emphasize your desire to protect your parent’s wishes. 

What if My Parents Don’t Want to Talk About Their Estate Plan? 

People may resist talking about estate planning because they assume it is only about dividing assets. Instead, you can emphasize that this is about protecting your parents' choices and values, ensuring their medical wishes are respected, and making things easier for the whole family.

Sharing personal experiences can also help. If you know someone who struggled with probate because a parent did not have a will, you can mention how difficult that situation was for that person. If you or a friend have had a positive experience with estate planning, explaining how it helped provide peace of mind may encourage your parents to take action.

If Your Parents Want to Share, Be Ready to Listen

Some parents may already have an estate plan in place but have not shared the details. Others may have concerns about giving up control over their finances or medical decisions. Being patient and open to their feelings will make the conversation more productive.

If your parents are unsure where to start, suggesting a meeting with an estate planning attorney can be a good next step. At The McCormick Law Firm, LLC, we offer free consultations where we can explain options and answer questions. Letting a professional guide the discussion can make the process easier and less stressful.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Estate Planning Lawyer

By approaching the conversation with care and patience, you can help your parents make decisions that will protect them and their loved ones. Call The McCormick Law Firm, LLC today at 630-517-8570 to schedule a free consultation with a Lisle, IL wills and trusts attorney.