Kiplinger.com
By Jacob Wolinsky
Updated: July 13th, 2026
Six tips to help you navigate an important yet difficult conversation with your family
Talking to your loved ones about end-of-life decisions can be difficult. After all, it can stir up deep emotions for everyone involved. Many people worry about causing pain, starting family arguments, or making the discussion feel too final.
Even so, talking with family about estate planning is one of the most loving conversations you can have. It allows you to be open with your requests and reduces future misunderstandings and stress. It also ensures your wishes (and theirs) are known and respected.
Trust & Will’s 2026 Estate Planning Report shows that a lack of planning can often lead to family disputes, with at least 35% reporting personal or known conflicts. Compounding the issue, 27% have never discussed end-of-life wishes with loved ones and do not plan to. The main reason? Discussions about mortality feel uncomfortable or even taboo.
