We often catch up with our relatives and the changes happening in their lives at family gatherings. For some families, they're among the few times everyone will get together under one roof. These celebrations can be the right time to start the conversation about your loved ones' future. An effective estate planning discussion involves timing, tact, and strategy. The conversation can continue and evolve later

A Wells Fargo survey found that nearly half of all Americans would rather discuss funeral plans than financial plans with their parents.  The discomfort about broaching these and similar topics can arise over concerns about appearing to expect an inheritance. Adult children might also wonder if they’re ready to handle responsibilities like caring for aging parents. And they could fear their parents will overreact or they will lead their parents to think they believe they’re experiencing health or financial troubles. To ensure you won’t need to guess in an emergency, find out your parents' financial, health-care, and legacy plans -- whether they’re already in place or should be considered. Here's how.

Personal finance expert Dave Ramsey has joked that to show you hate your family, "leave unclear instructions and no will." Without knowing your final wishes, those close to you could fight over your estate or wind up paying your end-of-life costs themselves. If your loved ones struggle to manage the probate process, the burden may also affect them physically and emotionally.

Many of us appreciate the companionship, support, and unconditional love animals provide. If you own a pet, you can become so close to them that they become part of the family. In case something happens to you, it is extremely important to have documents in place to ensure they receive care in your absence.

According to a Caring.com survey, 56 percent of American adults know it's important to have a will, but only one in three has an estate planning document.

The older you get, the more likely you are to be affected by legal issues involving aging. An elder law attorney can help you address some of them. An elder law attorney offers guidance on matters that concern the elderly, their families and caregivers, and adults with special needs, including long-term care and estate planning.

There are many reasons that the elderly need short term disability insurance. Take for example Sandy who was a caregiver for her 85-year-old mother. Sandy still worked full time and would help her mom in the evenings and weekends. Unfortunately, Sandy was in a serious car accident and would be ou...