Spooky Consequences of Not Having an End-of-Life Plan
While we typically prefer the positive approach to planning for “what-if” by focusing on the benefits, the Halloween season seems like the appropriate time to consider the negative or scary side of lack of planning.
To do so, it’s important to remember that if you are married or in a long-term relationship, you should be working on two end-of-life plans:
The plan for your own body and how your assets and possessions can support your underage children and spouse or partner after you’re gone.
The plan for how you will move forward in life if something is to take the life of your spouse or partner.
Below are the nightmares that might result if an illness or death should unexpectedly hit.
Consequences for Not Planning for Your Own Death (These also apply to aging adults whose adult children will be tasked with taking care of their estate.)
Lost Control from Beyond: No say in how you’re treated if incapacitated—leaving fate to others’ hands.
Vanishing Wishes: No say on your body’s final resting place.
Ghosted Memorials: No say in your funeral, leaving loved ones haunted by uncertainty.
Estate in the Shadows: Family feuds erupt over lack of instructions for your assets and possessions.
Family Hauntings: Bitter family arguments over every detail, from your wishes to your wealth.
Unfinished Business: Deathbed regret for not preparing your loved ones better.
Specter of Resentment: Anger from family left to handle every decision alone.
Curse of Costly Chaos: Family ire towards you for their time, money, and energy spent navigating legal maze of estate law.
Eternal What-Ifs: A lifetime of family second-guessing whether they honored your true wishes.
Love in Question: Family may feel resentment and lack of love for your lack of planning and consideration of their lives without you.
Consequences for Not Planning to Outlive Your Spouse or Partner
Financial Haunting: Sudden changes in your lifestyle due to lost income and benefits.
Living in Dread: Anxiety over how to provide basic needs without your partner’s support.
The Daily Dread: Frustration over household chores and responsibilities once handled by your partner.
Lingering Resentment: Anger toward your late spouse for leaving you with unanswered questions and unresolved estate plans.
Battles from Beyond: Family clashes over funeral plans, assets, and your partner’s belongings.
The Blame Game: Children or in-laws cast blame on you for unsettled circumstances around your partner’s death.
Living in a Fog: Shock of loss creates bewilderment and confusion, leading to hasty and regrettable decisions.
Don’t get caught off guard and unprotected. Here are some things you can do today to get started:
Talk to your partner and commit together to preparing each other for both scenarios.
Get educated on what proper planning entails.
Make an appointment with an estate planning attorney and financial planner.
If you have questions or aren’t sure where to start, let us know by sending us a note here: https://www.affairsinorder.com/stay-informed
Cheers!
Corey
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