What You Don’t Say

There are certainly times in life when silence is indicative of brilliance. Everyone experiences those moments when the smart thing to do is leave some things unsaid. But planning for the distribution of an estate is not one of those times.

It is a surprising reality that every year the vast majority of adults who die in America die without having given proper attention to the final articulation of their wishes. Most have definite ideas about appropriate estate distribution, business dissolution, care and custody of minors – even charitable bequests and other manifestations of philanthropic desires. Many even share these specific ideas verbally with family and friends.

Yet, without careful attention to how these wishes are articulated in the Last Will and Testament it can be as if all those hopes and dreams never existed. And the result is often confusion, hurt and significant cost to family and loved ones.

The Pitfall of Perfect Health

No one plans for his or her death to prompt confusion, expense and even unnecessary pain. At the same time, it is only natural that the subject of a final communication is not something we wish to spend much time considering. We all want to believe there will be plenty of time to communicate with those we love.

Where there is no will, all decisions with respect to estate distribution – and even custody of minors – will be made by a court. A judge will appoint legal representation and executors. Issues paramount to the judicial process will help govern every decision about the estate. And what should be the personal business of family during a time of loss can end up taking far too much time and significantly depleting available resources.

A Written Plan May Not Be Enough!

While almost any will is better than none at all, it is also important to remember that a plan should specifically articulate your wishes. A plan that relies on the interpretation or judgment of others in order for objectives to be realized may cause as much pain as having no plan.

In any situation, what you don’t say in your will can end up accidentally hurting or even disinheriting someone you intended to provide for in your estate.

If you would like more information on creating a plan that reflects and ensures your hopes and dreams – for family, for friends, and for charitable organizations like the Foundation for Community Care - we invite you to contact us at 406-488-2273 or go to our website http://www.foundationforcommunitycare.org. Our staff offers detailed educational information without cost or obligation.