The Family Conversation: What to Discuss With Your Children Before You Pass Away

30/05/2025 41 min
The Family Conversation: What to Discuss With Your Children Before You Pass Away

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of The Personal Finance Project, Scott, Greg, and returning guest Moe Allain tackle an essential—but often overlooked—topic: what parents should discuss with their adult children before they pass away. This candid conversation moves beyond technical estate planning and dives into the heart of family wealth discussions, covering practical strategies, emotional considerations, and the importance of communication. The team explores how parents can help ease the burden for their children by organizing documents, clarifying roles, and setting expectations. They also discuss why a "fair" estate doesn't always mean an "equal" estate, how to handle unequal distributions, and the importance of gifting while living. Key takeaways include: Why everyone—regardless of net worth—needs an estate plan The importance of discussing executor, trustee, and power of attorney roles How to organize and update key documents: wills, trusts, account information, passwords, and more The value of sharing life wisdom, investment philosophy, and family values—not just financial assets Why "giving with a warm hand" can create deeper family connections Common mistakes to avoid: over-planning, under-communicating, and ignoring the emotional side of estate planning Whether you're a parent thinking about your legacy or an adult child navigating these conversations, this episode offers practical tips and thoughtful insights to guide your family through the complexities of estate planning with empathy and clarity.

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