2. No one gets a free pass. It’s going to happen.

“Death happens to everyone—some, sooner than others. You are not immune. As cliché as it is, it is true that tomorrow isn’t promised. So, just because you aren’t ready to accept the fact that one day you will die, that it will happen, you should still be prepared—if not for you, for your loved ones who will be faced with making decisions for you.”

— Carmen M. Rosas, estate planning attorney, Redwood City, Calif.

 

3. Plan for your death, for the sake of the living.

“If you’ve ever lost a loved one, you know the pain that comes along with it. The loss alone is heartbreaking. Add in the decisions leading up to the death. Electing a person to make life-altering decisions. Selecting a funeral or burial or cremation location. Deciding on a memorial or a viewing to remember them by. Paperwork, attorneys, bills. It’s emotional and stressful. By creating an estate plan ahead of time, you ease the chaos when you do die. Be self-less. Create an estate plan.”

— Carmen M. Rosas, estate planning attorney, Redwood City, Calif.

 

4. Communicate your wishes.

“The road to solid estate planning is paved with communication. Get your trusted loved ones and advisors involved. The fewer surprises to your survivors after your death, the less chance there will be confusion or disputes. An estate plan is a great idea regardless of your net worth.”

John O’Grady, estate planning attorney, San Francisco, Calif.

 

5. Your plan is just that—a plan. It can change. 

“You will learn much by living with your plan for a while. Plans are made to be changed. Review all of your estate planning documents and beneficiary designations every 3-5 years and after any major life event (e.g. marriage/divorce, death, birth, significant change in financial situation, move or change in property ownership). You may amend your estate plans during your lifetime.”

John O’Grady, estate planning attorney, San Francisco, Calif.

 

Of course, estate planning is simply one aspect of death and dying. What topics related to death and dying are on your mind? Please share in the comments.”