How To Deal With Death During The Pandemic

It is a fact that Indians often do not involve family members in their family finances until death, leading to a lot of confusion and unrest among survivors. If you are reading this and facing the same problem, then you’re not alone. The pandemic resulted in many families facing unexpected losses, sometimes without even knowing anything about the deceased's financial or estate matters, which makes matters worse. This highlights the urgent need for proper drafting of Wills and estate planning in India.

Finances and death are two such topics that are rarely discussed because it’s hard to start the conversation. A Will is a document that contains the wishes of a person regarding property distribution and last wishes after death. Though perceived as a complicated concept but in reality, it's not, as making a Will on reliable platforms like AasaanWill simplifies the whole process and legally secures your wishes. Many people do it so that their loved ones can lead a peaceful life without any legal disputes, and succession planning makes everyone’s life very easy. This conversation must be initiated- especially in times like pandemics when uncertainties are high.

But how do you start?

This blog offers some suggestions on talking to your parents about Wills and estate planning.

These steps safeguard family unity and also bring clarity regarding inheritance and legalities.

Understanding Why This Conversation Matters

We understand that many thoughts cross your mind when discussing succession with your parents, who are over 50 years old. Some of these thoughts are:

1. I don’t want to seem greedy

2. I don’t want them to perceive it like I am eager to see them die

Well, these thoughts are natural, but should not shape their approach to discussing their succession plan. The pandemic has shown life’s unpredictability; thus, drafting a Will is an act of love and duty, not greed. Proper estate planning and registration of a Will help to prevent unnecessary future family disputes.

Approach Matters the Most 

Don’t say;

“Hi, Dad, I want to discuss your retirement finance plans. Have you decided yet who will get what?”

Such conversations are not that easy. The first and foremost rule of initiating this conversation is that you do not raise your voice or try to force your opinions on your parents. Talk very politely, calmly, and respectfully throughout the conversation. Remember, understanding is your goal, not confrontation.

Your gestures matter a lot and can convey the exact opposite of what you want to convey if you lose your calm. Make them feel comfortable and ease them into the discussion, showing it's okay to have this conversation.

Effective Ways to Begin the Conversation

1. Give them a reference

If you have seen any recent incident, maybe with your relatives or friends, start the discussion with that reference. Talk about the difficulties that the person is facing due to a lack of a Will by his parents.

For example: “My friend Ashish lost his dad recently, and soon faced family disputes over property due to no Will. It has become a daily argument for them.” This story shows how quarrels arise in a family without a proper estate plan, and why it is necessary to have a Will.

2. Give their wishes importance

Don’t directly ask your parents about their plans; instead, focus on their wishes and make them feel that you respect their wishes by saying:

“We want to understand your estate-related wishes and support you. One day, when you’re not with us, we don’t want to be involved in arguments, fights, or legal disputes.”

This approach encourages parents to share their wishes and reasons openly. Highlighting that drafting a Will with a professional platform like AasaanWill ensures that your wishes are properly recorded, legally documented, and carried out as intended.

3. Communicate properly

Before you say, put yourself in your parents' shoes. Don’t force your opinions; just ask them and then provide them with the solution.

“I know we haven’t discussed finances before, but now your children are grown. I don’t want your hard-earned wealth to get wasted. We can discuss this calmly; it doesn’t have to be how they show in their movies or daily soaps.”

A calm and positive approach facilitates trust, eases family discussions about difficult topics.

4. What if the situation is complicated

If the assets are jointly owned by parents with someone else, or it’s a joint family property, it is better to involve legal experts, who will answer all queries posed. In such cases, AasaanWill’s online Will-drafting services guide families through complex property and inheritance laws efficiently.

Illustration: Consider a situation where a father jointly owns property with his brother, without a Will, the legal heirs might face lengthy succession claims. A properly executed Will clearly defines shares and prevents any future conflicts.

5. Convey your wishes

Share your specific wishes, specify the reasons, and explain your emotions to them, until you tell them, they won’t know.

And the last rule is that if they ask you for some time, give them time, and don’t rush it. Being gentle and patient encourages understanding, and it shows mutual respect in planning family wealth.

Common Questions About Will Making in India

Q: Why is having a legal Will extremely significant in unpredictable times like the COVID-19 pandemic, and how does it legally protect families?

A: A legal Will has become extremely important now more than ever, especially in unpredictable times like the COVID-19 pandemic. It clearly outlines the mode and manner of asset distribution, thereby avoiding fighting amongst heirs in case of untimely deaths and also emotional unrest. It also facilitates succession of property, prevents long legal battles, and financial hardships in times of sorrow, under the Indian Succession Act, 1925. Trusted platforms like AasaanWill help draft valid and enforceable Wills, offering families peace of mind by safeguarding their rights and ensuring rightful heirs receive their shares promptly and securely during difficult times.

Q: When should parents make a Will?

A: Parents should draft a Will once they own significant assets like immovable property, bank savings, investments, or valuable personal belongings. Early drafting clarifies ownership of property, prevents family quarrels, aids in tax planning, and ensures that its primary function of legalizing the disposition of assets is fulfilled in accordance with the individual's personal desires.

AasaanWill: Your Trusted Partner for Secure, Simple, and Stress-Free Will Drafting

AasaanWill makes Will-drafting simple, legal, and accessible online, offering expert guidance to ensure your wishes are clear, secure, and legally valid. Discussing Wills and estate planning with your parents might feel uncomfortable, but it is crucial to protect your family’s finances and prevent disputes. Approaching these conversations with respect and patience fosters peace and certainty. Using trusted services like AasaanWill simplifies the legal process, making estate planning easier and more accessible. Taking these proactive steps safeguards your parents, family, and yourself during uncertain times by ensuring your wishes are honored and protected.

AasaanWill Zaroori Hai! – Simple, Secure, and Legally Valid Will Drafting.