There is no easy way to ask your elderly parents questions dealing with issues that will need to be settled after their death. Nevertheless, it is still important that you obtain answers to these difficult questions: Do they have a will? Do they have any hidden assets or liabilities? Where do they keep their financial documents? Who will handle their affairs if they become mentally or physically incapacitated? Do they have a living will and a medical power of attorney? Is their current medical insurance adequate? Do they have long-term care insurance? Have they made funeral arrangements? Will their estate owe taxes? Before asking these questions, assure your parents that you are not trying to invade their privacy. Remember, it is just as difficult for them as it is for you. Also, after you have asked them these questions, ask them of yourself as well. Death and disability are not limited to the elderly. Reasons for why families find it hard to talk about inheritance and ten tips for talking can be found in “Critical Conversations about Inheritance: Can We Talk?”. Additional resources to help talk about personal possessions and inheritance can be found at these Web sites: * At “Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate” , you can learn about critical planning steps, listen to how other families have handled the issue, print free articles to share with others, and learn how to order a workbook with valuable planning tools and examples. * "Legally Secure Your Financial Future" provides insights on how to begin communicating with family members about estate plans. We would like your feedback on this Personal Finance Frequently Asked Question.

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