When you pass away, there is always a risk that your family could get into arguments or disagree about how to handle your estate. It’s important to take action and to look into ways to prevent arguments or will contests, for example, so your passing can be as peaceful as possible.
Death can bring out the worst in people as they go through their grief. That’s why it’s so important to be honest about your estate plan and to be forthright with the information you want your family to know.
3 ways to prevent family arguments after your death
There are several ways you can help prevent arguments after death.
- Discuss your will openly
The first thing you can do is take the time to discuss your will openly. Tell your beneficiaries what they can expect, and go over why you made the decisions you did. If anyone has complaints or questions, doing this earlier in life will give you the time to answer them and make adjustments if necessary.
- Address last-minute changes
If you decide to make decisions at the last-minute because you have a terminal illness or are away that death is likely, then you need to talk to your beneficiaries or family members again. It’s helpful to address any last-minute changes you’re making with multiple people present, so there aren’t arguments in the future.
- Consider a no-contest clause
Another thing you can do is consider adding in a no-contest clause. A no-contest clause makes it so that anyone who tries to litigate will lose their right to the assets left to them if they lose their case. This is a good option if you think someone will try to contest the will.
These are three ways you can prevent family fights after a death. You’re in control of your estate, and if you approach it correctly, you may be able to prevent your family from having additional stress after your passing. Your attorney can talk to you more about the options to help minimize the risk of your will or estate plan being challenged.
