How do I start a conversation about dying?

Talking about dying is uncomfortable for many people. Death can be a taboo subject, and only around 50% of adults (in England and Wales) make a valid Will before they die.

People who have experienced the loss of a close member of their family often tell us how they felt unprepared and didn’t know what to do.

Making a Will is far easier than you might think.

We have a free e-guide to help you. There’s no obligation. Click the button below to download your copy.

Being open and honest about your views is a good way to begin any heart-to-heart. Highlight how you want to reduce any burden in the future. No one wants to leave a mess for their family to deal with when they’re gone.

It can be difficult to know how to approach the subject of dying. Sharing these e-guides with your parents can be a simple way to start the conversation.

You might also ask:

• If you were to become ill, what would be important to you?

• Have you thought about what you would want to happen at your funeral?

• What would you like to happen to your personal possessions?

COVID has highlighted how the unexpected can happen at anytime. The pandemic has forced many people to think about their mortality. Many legal firms have seen the number of enquiries they receive double since 2020.

Dying without a Will means giving up your right to choose

Every adult with a bank account, home, children, pets or a business needs a Will.

Dying without a Will is known as dying intestate. There are strict rules - called the intestacy rules - that decide who will inherit your personal property and money if you don’t make a Will.

You can check how they would deal with your personal situation here.

Do you know the ‘statutory legacy’ for a married or civil partner with children is only £270,000? If your personal wealth is more than this and you have children, your husband, wife or civil partner will not inherit everything. Instead, your children will automatically inherit a share at 18. Very few people would want their children’s inheritance to force the sale of the family home, but this does happen.

We call your Will your legal letter of love to your family. It shows you care. Sorting out your financial affairs is far simpler for the people you leave behind if you’ve explained your wishes in your Will.

If you have a question about making a Will that’s stopping you from taking action, get in touch today. We’re happy to help.