By Angie Epting Morris

Every married person with children should consider the possibility that one day something might happen to them, and that eventually the surviving spouse might remarry. In contemplating that situation, they should then consider what property (furniture, jewelry, china, special keepsakes, etc.) they want to be sure ends up belonging to their children, not sold or given to step-children whom they do not know.

Here’s how to do this easily:

Simply make a list of all items that you want to be divided among your children. Don’t make this process harder than necessary. You do not need to indicate exactly what items go to which child – the list should simply indicate all items that you want to be divided among the children or heirs specifically named in your will.

Next, have a statement of your intent, including the list, attached to your will as a part of your estate plan. In order to be sure that amendments conform to the laws of your state, it is recommended that you have this done by a professional. It’s a simple exercise, but one that can prevent problems later.

Above all, I believe that the greatest legacy we should leave to our children is to teach them the meaning of the “Golden Rule” – do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Anything that lends itself to lessening conflict during the estate settlement process should likewise assist in teaching them this ultimate truth.

Read Dividing Estates in Blended Families

Related articles:
• Who Will Care for My Children If Something Happens to Me?
• Storing Your Important Records
• Your Safe Deposit Box
• Your Last Goodbye

Also by Angie Epting Morris:
• Dividing Estates in Blended Families
• How to Settle an Estate Peacefully
• What is an Estate Executor?
• Should I List Who Gets What in a Will?
• Who Needs a Will?

Angie Epting Morris is the author of THE SETTLEMENT GAME: How to Settle an Estate Peacefully and Fairly, a step-by-step guide addressing the age-old problem of how to divide personal property without dividing the family. The book is available on Amazon and her system is widely used and highly recommended by attorneys and financial planners.




Photo by jerrypic/StockXchng